By Ron Ortiz
The 60-year-old Penn Theatre across from Kellogg Park in downtown Plymouth is once again in jeopardy after being closed as a theatre for two years. It is currently being leased to religious groups for meeting space. That lease expires in June of this year.
A new group, Friends of the Penn, has organized to raise at least $2 million to preserve the historic theatre. If successful, they plan to spend $1 million to purchase the structure and another $1 million towards renovation. Current owners, Patrick Tortora and Chris Knight have said that they will consider the offer and are willing to work with any appropriate group toward a viable solution for the preservation of the theatre. However, The Downtown Development Authority also formed a committee to look at possible uses for the building and several businesses proposed that the building be demolished and the area redeveloped.
The Penn is one of the best preserved classic film cinemas in Michigan and in 2001, was given "The Preservation Award" by the Detroit Area Art Deco Society. While many neighborhood theatres closed, the Penn Theatre managed to survive for decades by offering second run family films. The Friends of the Penn's goal is to reopen the theatre as a film and live entertainment venue.
If you are interested in the preservation of this venerable old theatre, you can find more about the groups efforts at their website: www.friendofthepenn.org.
