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Arthur

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Review for Lark Theater, Larkspur, CA, USA

Rating: 5 stars  

The Lark Theater was built in 1936 in historic downtown Larkspur. The theater was designed by the African-American architect, William B. David. There were 2 similar theaters built at this time, The Noyo in Healdsburg, and one other, now dark (closed). The Lark Theater is 1 of 5 single screen theaters in daily operation remaining in the United States. The Lark Theater was purchased by the non-profit Lark Theater for $ 900,000.00 in 2007. All funds were raised locally in amounts from a dollar to a $100,000.00. The Lark Theater is on the National Register of Historic Buildings, has received the Art Deco Preservation Award in 2005 and is a Larkspur Heritage Building. " the Lark is now a nonprofit film center that boasts an eclectic lineup of independent films, classics, family films, documentaries, special events and public forums." Chronicle article,"On a Wing and a Prayer, Lark stays Aloft," April 15, 2005 The Lark seats about 200 people so fund raising is an on-going activity.. Volunteers work with a small staff to operate the theater, make repairs, and plan events. The theater is equipped with high definition digital projection enabling the presentation of the Metropolitan Opera, sports events, presidential debates, as well as private screenings. see www.larktheater.net for information contact Bernice Baeza, Executive Director for information, to volunteer , and to donate to current projects and operations. I live close to the Lark Theater and am fortunate to see a wide range of programs in this dazzling art deco theater. The concession stand has wine, organic snacks, and fresh popcorn in addition to the usual assortment of treats. There is a need for a commercial espresso machine because this is Marin County (the Lark Creek Inn, Emporio Rulli, and The Left Bank are all within 4 blocks of the Lark). Please come see a show! This is a rare opportunity to see what a local movie house used to be.

I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...

The ability to raise $ 900,000.00 to buy the theater and additional monies and volunteers to renovate the building.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

Schedule more programs on the history of cinema.

What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...

The Metropolitan Opera, live and in high definition.

The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...

All walks of life. Friendly and passionate about the Lark Theater.

If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...

Build bigger bathrooms, upgrade the facade lighting to LED for energy conservation and cost savings, develop new programs that explore the history of cinema, increase programming for children, and other community groups, start an endowment to provide a financial cushion. upgrade the heating and cooling system

Ways to make it better...

The lobby was bigger. Remember the Lark was built in 1936 and bathrooms and lobbies were much smaller.

In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...

200 seats limits income per show.

One thing I'd also say is that...

Visit and experience this theater, take the kids.

When was your last experience with this nonprofit?

2008

Role:  Volunteer & Fund raising, ticket taker, usher, whatever is needed.