Public suggestions sought on restoration of Robins Theater

WARREN

The doors of the Robins Theater on East Market Street opened to the public for three hours Saturday afternoon for a public viewing of the decline of a once magnificent movie showcase.

For Gary Robinson, 64, a Warren resident for 50 years, the decaying interior reminded him of his city.

“I remember everything about this place, but now it’s sad and it’s like what’s happened to Warren,” said the retiree. “This building went downhill and so has the city.”

In a line that stretched from East Market around the corner along nearly a block of Pine Avenue, more than an estimated 150 turned up at the urging of the Robins Project, a community group staffed with volunteers hoping to restore the building by encouraging active local involvement. The group asked for individual $7 donations.

“A student group from New York told us it would cost $14 million [for restoration], but right now we are hoping to raise $3 million that would help us secure loans,” said Melissa Holmes, who heads the project. “We’ve been assured of tax credits and we feel the potential is there.”

Holmes said her enthusiasm for the project is based on her experience in the Peace Corps.

Read more about plans for the old film house and other spots on Saturday's tour in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.