Changes taking shape at Penn Theater
Former Butler resident Bryan Frenchak is moving full speed ahead with his dream to restore the long-dormant Penn Theater to its former glory.
Frenchak, who lives in Houston, Texas, purchased the theater in November for $65,000. Renovations are expected to cost around $1.5 million, and Frenchak is targeting September for its reopening.
Frenchak discovered major disrepair when he received the keys to the venue and made cleanup his initial priority.
First up was fixing a leaking roof, which had caused significant damage due to a huge hole that allowed flooding and the wood to break down.
Penn Theater opened in 1938, and became a well-used theater and events center that played host to concerts, comedians, musicals and private events. After several decades as Main Street’s movie destination, the theater closed its doors in May 1991, as a result of Butler’s retail economy shifting away from Main Street and toward more suburban areas.
Frenchak wants to continue the Penn’s tradition booking a diverse variety of events once construction is complete. His plans for the building include three tiers: a bar area when you enter, the main area, and the stage and the VIP area.
“The initial thought was it needs to be dynamic,” Frenchak told the Eagle last week.
Our hope is that he hits his September date for reopening the venue and we wish him well in his efforts to restore this crown jewel in downtown Butler.
— JGG
