The Garza Theatre, once known as the Palace Theatre, holds a cherished place in the heart of Post, Texas. Its history is a vibrant tapestry woven with community spirit, artistic expression, and resilience. This historic venue has experienced dramatic highs and lows, from being a bustling stage for performances to a forgotten relic and, now, a promising hub for the arts once again. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of the Garza Theatre and how it has risen from the ashes of despair to rekindle its creative spark.
A Glorious Past
The Garza Theatre first opened its doors in the 1930s, bringing a wide array of entertainment options to the Post community. On March 26, 1936, box office records show that the venue was taken over by the Griffith circuit, allowing locals to enjoy popular films and cinematic adventures.
Over the years, ownership transitioned, and in 1943, the theatre became part of Westex Theatres, a subsidiary of Griffith. During this time, the community enjoyed a consistent lineup of films. For instance, classic Western films were a regular feature, drawing crowds and creating memorable experiences for families and friends.
A Troubling Turn
Unfortunately, in 1955, the vibrant era of the Garza Theatre came to a halt when it closed its doors indefinitely. The situation worsened in 1957 when a devastating fire led to nearly thirty years of silence. The once-bustling theatre fell into disrepair, becoming a haunting symbol of what used to be.
Despite its neglect, the community's desire for revival never waned. Local residents often shared fond memories of attending shows and eagerly dreamed of restoring the theatre to its former glory.
A New Beginning
In 1986, Will McCrary emerged as a local champion of the arts and spearheaded efforts to reinvigorate the Garza Theatre. With a community theatre group, he began the ambitious task of revamping the dilapidated space. By December of that same year, the curtains rose once again with a heartfelt performance of "My Three Angels."
Although the initial setting was quite basic—with folding metal chairs, limited heating, and minimal lighting—the energy and excitement from the audience were palpable. This revival marked the start of a new chapter, sparking hope and creativity in the community once more.
Management Changes and Continued Growth
In 1990, the community faced a tragic loss when Will McCrary passed away. His legacy lived on, however, as Jane Prince Jones took over as managing director. Under her guidance, the theatre enjoyed a resurgence in activity, showcasing various performances, many of which featured talented local actors.
In 1995, Cristy Morris succeeded Jane and continued to breathe life into the theatre for the next 16 years. This period saw an increase in both audience attendance and community involvement. In fact, attendance numbers rose by nearly 40 percent, demonstrating the venue's growing popularity among locals.
The Challenges of Time
In 2011, the Garza Theatre faced one of its most daunting challenges. A city inspection uncovered significant safety concerns within the nearly 100-year-old structure. The roof and electrical systems needed urgent repairs.
For safety reasons, the city made the tough decision to close the theatre. Restoration estimates ranged from $1.5 million to $1.8 million, casting a shadow for both the theatre and the community, who mourned the loss of this cherished venue.
The Hope for Revival
Yet again, hope appeared on the horizon when Perky Palette announced the purchase of the Garza Theatre on August 18, 2024. This new ownership brings fresh energy and plans for restoration, determined to revitalize the venue and create a welcoming space for art and theatre to thrive. The community eagerly anticipates the return of their beloved theatre, and their dreams of artistic revival may soon materialize.
The Garza Theatre's story exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity. It reflects the spirit of the Post community, which has never stopped believing in the power of art and culture to bring people together.
A Bright Future Ahead
As we recount the incredible journey of the Garza Theatre, it becomes clear that it is more than just a building. It represents community, perseverance, and a deep-rooted passion for the arts. With ongoing restoration efforts, the Garza Theatre is poised to rekindle its legacy as a vibrant hub where creativity can flourish and stories come to life.
The community stands on the brink of a promising new chapter, eager for the theatre to once again serve as a stage for talented performers and heartwarming narratives that unite them all. The curtains are ready to rise, and this time, the spotlight is set to shine even brighter.
As the saying goes, the show must go on, and for the Garza Theatre, that show is just beginning. Stay tuned for updates as art lovers and history enthusiasts come together to celebrate the revival of this treasured venue!
Below is the inspection from 2011 that talks about the improvements and costs for the repairs.
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