Imagine a world without the arts. No music, no theater, no acting, no dance, no paintings, and no sculptures. It's hard to imagine such a world, isn't it? The arts have always been an essential part of human existence, and they enrich our lives in countless ways. The arts help us understand the world around us, express ourselves, and connect with others.
In Auburn, California, the historic State Theatre has been a cultural hub for the community for nearly a century. The grand, art deco movie palace has presented a broad variety of programs from local youth theatre to nationally recognized artists such as Kathy Mattea & Suzy Bogguss, Leo Kottke, Jesse Colin Young, and Joan Osborne.
The nonprofit Auburn State Theatre (AST), formed by a group of arts-minded citizens, purchased, and upgraded the facility in 2006, restoring the façade and completely refurbishing the interior in 2014. AST has welcomed nearly 118,000 patrons and collaborated with community groups to present events that appeal to a wide range of the population.
However, in April 2023, the ceiling in the auditorium fell, causing the theatre to close until renovations can be made. The reconstruction and the replacement of equipment that was damaged in the collapse are extensive. The first phase of work included removing much of what was inside the theatre due to asbestos, and then cleaning the interior so that further construction could begin.
Although temporarily closed for restoration, this community treasure shines brightly each night with its iconic Marquee. With the help of community partners, AST continues to hold unique events in various venues.
The community at large has been the heart of AST's business, and now we are asking for your help. We want to continue doing what we do best for the community, to entertain, to connect, to educate, and mostly to enjoy the various kinds of arts that are available in Placer County and beyond.
Your support for the Auburn State Theatre will help ensure that this cultural gem continues to thrive and provide meaningful experiences for generations to come. Let's come together and make sure that the arts remain a vibrant part of our community.