Boulder City Theatre transforms into performing arts center

When the Boulder City Theatre completes its remodel, it will have transformed from a movie house into a live performing arts center, as well as the permanent home of the Boulder City Ballet Co.

"It's a dream that started more than 25 years ago, when Amy's passion for teaching children the joys of dance resulted in the establishment of the BCBC," said Desi Arnaz Jr., who with his wife, Amy, oversees the project. "And, after two decades of renting facilities for performances, it was kismet that the theater, located next door to the BCBC studio, was for sale."

Amy Arnaz is executive director of the dance company.

"Being able to rehearse and perform in an actual theater is an incredible experience for the more than 500 children who attend the BCBC," she said. "It's unprecedented that a dance company the size of the BCBC has its own theater."

Roel Construction is general contractor for the project.

"Remodeling a building that is on the National Register of Historic Places is a responsibility not to be taken lightly," project manager Melissa Kindhart said. "The Arnazes want to retain the historic integrity of the building, while updating it to meet construction codes and revitalizing it into a useful and exciting venue.

"From the perspective of bringing the building up to code, the Boulder City Theatre is a structure that has lent itself to remodeling. So often when renovating historic landmarks, you run into unpleasant surprises that delay work."

Modernization efforts have included framing out the ceilings and walls, installing all-new plumbing, remodeling the one original bathroom, and adding a women's restroom and an ADA-compliant unisex restroom. Additionally, all electrical systems have been upgraded not only to meet code, but to handle new light and sound systems. Smoke alarms and fire sprinklers have also been added.

The theater's 1,500-square-foot lobby was recently altered to include a gift shop and ticket area, and is reminiscent of when it was built in the 1930s. The fleur-de-lis ceiling, antique brass door and window hardware, and light fixtures from Spain complement the pink and burgundy décor.

"Amy had a vision for the lobby," Kindhart said. "She painstakingly chose the color and style of carpet, paint and tile. Roel then went to work finding the best product for the least price, while diligently keeping Amy's vision top-of-mind."

Desi Arnaz placed a time capsule inside a wall of the new lobby. The capsule holds historical information; a letter from Amy Arnaz; a July 31, 2002, newspaper; a Ricci, Desi and Billy CD; background on the Boulder City Ballet Co.; inspirational messages; and information about Roel Construction.

While the building's exterior remains as it was originally, Roel installed custom-made, vinyl-coated windows that are similar in design to the structure's original wood casement windows. The new windows are energy efficient and maintain an authentic appearance, Kindhart said.

The movie screen has been removed, and a 50-foot by 50-foot stage with Harlequin dance flooring has been installed. Mirrors have been added to the back wall and portable ballet barres are included. The 400-seat theater will be remodeled over the next year.

"During demolition, the building offered up a pleasant surprise to remind us of the theater's rich history," Kindhart said, noting that project superintendent Kevin Flynn found an issue of the March 22, 1933, Boulder City Journal within a wall.

"I was thrilled," Flynn said. "Since the paper was encased in cinder block, it had to be placed there by a construction worker."

The front page informed Boulder City residents that on April 6, 1933, "the far western states could legally drink the new 3.2 percent beer three hours earlier by the clock than New Yorkers or Washingtonians." The editorial page, labeled Editorial Evening Review-Journal Features, addressed the Great Depression and worldwide unrest. An editorial read: "We have always in periods of stress demonstrated a capacity to `take it on the chin.'"

Also included was a special section titled "Commemorating The Second `Birthday' of Boulder City, Nevada" with the headline "Dam Will Be Built In Motion Pictures -- Complete Story of Engineering Features to Be Kept in Films."

The BCBC teaches its 3- to 18-year-old dancers that ballet is best when noncompetitive.

"I know personally the harm that can come when children's abilities are focused on competition, and the fear that often accompanies it," Desi Arnaz said. "We're fear-busters. We work to instill an inner confidence that is reflected in the performance."

Amy Arnaz agreed.

"Across the country, dance teachers are focusing on preparing children for organized competitions between schools. Desi and I don't believe ballet is about competing. It's about the love of dance and the joy of performing. The Boulder City Theatre is for the children," she said.

Real Estate home