COLUMBUS – The venerable Drexel Theatre, the 1930s art deco landmark on Main Street in Bexley, reopens Friday night after an extensive facelift that has restored her historic splendor while adding modern touches.
The $1.5 million final phase of renovation was originally slated to include the marquee, entrance, and lobby of the building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but after successful fundraising efforts by Friends of the Drexel, the project was expanded to include full renovation of the Drexel’s three theatres as well, Columbus Association for the Performing Arts spokeswoman Rolanda Copley said.
Completion of the final phase means the $2.5 million total renovation of the theater, begun in 2012, is now finished, Copley said.
The theater’s iconic marquee has been restored to its original art deco design, its neon tubing replaced, and the original ceiling beneath the marquee has been restored. In keeping with tradition, the marquee will still use manual lettering to advertise upcoming films and events but new lighting was added and colored lights were reinstalled.
New entry doors have been installed with new art deco-inspired hardware, the building’s original stainless steel ceiling has been restored, and the exterior has been painted.
Once inside the lobby, visitors will notice new carpeting, new lighting, and a new, full-service concessions counter, all in the art deco design. The signs, however, are 21st Century: All digital, including the concessions menu and listings of coming attractions and events.
The concession stand now serves draft beer, including local craft beer selections, gourmet caramel popcorn, pizza, pretzels and hot dogs, said Copley.
The room’s dropped ceiling has been removed to restore the area to its original height and plaster crown molding has been repaired.
Prior phases of remodeling included new restrooms; new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units; and replacement of the barrel roof over the three theatres. The theaters were converted to state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, including installation of a high-tech, closed captioning system for hearing-impaired patrons.