BOYERTOWN PA – In a major renovation project that spanned 19 months and relied on about 1,000 hours of volunteer work, all 215 seats (at top and below) in the historic Boyertown State Theatre have been refurbished and upgraded, the non-profit State Theatre Preservation Society said.
Successful completion of the extensive seating renovation project marked “a significant milestone in the enhancement of the 111-year-old venue,” its officials reported in a media release. It’s intended to ensure movie-goers have “an even more enjoyable and convenient experience” at the 61 N. Reading Ave. theater.
Each seat rebuilt with comfort in mind
The project involved the systematic removal of each row of seats in the theater. They were disassembled, with the metal framework separated from the cushions. Metal components were shot blasted to strip them bare, and then re-coated with a high-temperature powder finish. Worn parts were swapped for new ones as needed. Each old cushion was replaced by a freshly fabric-upholstered foam upgrade.
Additionally, all wooden components of the seating also were meticulously restored, society officials reported. “Each wooden element was completely stripped, painstakingly sanded down to bare wood, and then lovingly refinished with a new stain.” Three top coats of polyurethane were then applied, resulting in a durable finish.
The work even offered a bonus for viewers: attached cup holders for all. Then the seats were “meticulously reassembled and reinstalled,” again row by row.
A commitment to ensure “an exceptional experience for our community members and patrons has been at the heart of this project,” State Theatre President Jake Zimmers said. “We are immensely grateful to our dedicated volunteers, Ken and Shannon Shaw, whose tireless efforts made this renovation possible, as well as the support from Maguire Products, A.W. Mercer, and Shultz Upholstery,” he added.
With its seating renovation now complete, the society invites community members, patrons, and all lovers of the arts to experience the theater’s enhanced comfort and aesthetics. “We look forward to welcoming you to our upgraded venue for a season of unforgettable performances,” Zimmers said.
Photos provided by the State Theatre Preservation Society
Enjoying Travels With The Post? “Like” or “Follow” us on Facebook.
5 Northern Chester Projects Awarded State Grants