TRUMBULL COUNTY A tech vision of Robins Theater

No money has been offered to make the idea a reality.
By STEPHEN SIFF
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- The historic downtown Robins Theater could be reborn as a high-tech showcase for interactive computer graphics, the grandson of the original architect said.
The grandson, Robin B. Lake, toured the dilapidated building Monday with an entourage of city officials, including Mayor Michael O'Brien.
Lake, a retired engineering professor at Case Western Reserve University, snapped pictures of the mildewed chairs and decaying plaster, reminiscing out loud about old concession stands and matinees. His grandfather, I.J. Goldston, designed the 1923 theater for in-laws Ben and Dan Robins.
Lake, now of Cleveland Heights, said he hoped to encourage city leaders to develop the 2,000-seat theater for the next generation of video entertainment: Digital images projected on a screen surrounding the stage, for a three-dimensional effect.
"Who needs another performing-arts venue?" Lake asked. "Vaudeville is dead, and you can watch a video in front of your own 60-inch flat-screen TV."
The high-tech movie house he envisions could be used for IMAX-style films or new video games, he said. The digital equipment could also be used to project backdrops for operas or plays, or create a three-dimensional interactive experience.
The facility could be used by computer students at local colleges, he said.
Lake said he did not have money to push this vision forward, but that he could help city officials meet with people who have the technical expertise.
Building problems
Since falling into disuse in 1974, the theater has become home to numerous cats and pigeons. Shafts of sunlight pierce the roof in small sections where the ceiling collapsed. All the seating and plaster work would likely have to be replaced, city Community Development director Michael Keys said.
The city has secured an architectural firm to evaluate options for renovating the building. Possibilities include using it as a meeting and conference center, Keys said.
The state has offered $1 million toward eventual renovation. Past renovation estimates have been about $6 or $7 million, he said.