Seal Beach Bay Theatre Renovation

Bay Theatre
340 Main St.
Seal Beach, Ca 90740
Built in 1945

Latest Renovation at Historic Seal Beach Theatre
By Chris MacDonald

Work is progressing on Seal Beach's historic Bay Theatre, near Main and Pacific Coast Highway, which has been closed to the public since 2012. Paul Dunlap, the new owner is overseeing the restoration of the more than 70-year-old landmark, bringing it back to its glory.

"It's a labor of love. I appreciate the history. I appreciate the architecture. I appreciate the community and want to preserve this unique building for this wonderful seaside town," said Dunlap, who renovated Fullerton's 1922 Spanish Colonial-style California Hotel into the popular mixed-use Villa Del Sol. He also has restored buildings in Orange and other cities as part of Dunlap Property Group.

"We're fixing the roof, refurbishing the façade and marquee, expanding the stage as well preserving the atmosphere with many relics, including the ornate ticket box and art deco on the bathroom doors," he said. "The screen will be expanded from 21 to 30 feet high and there may be 385 seats. We'd love to get everything done this year."

Dunlap, who recalls as a kid seeing "Endless Summer" in the place that started out as the Beach Theatre on Thanksgiving Day, 1945, then became a Fox West Coast Theatre and later another theatre, said the facility also will offer live entertainment, including touring acts, singers and comedy. "I'd like to make it a real landmark for the city as well as for the entertainment industry."

He said Seal Beach has been very helpful in making the remake possible. "We formed a City Historical Committee so we could create a City Historical Landmark Designation for the Theatre," said Seal Beach District One Councilwoman Ellery Deaton. "By doing this, we could grandfather things like beer and wine for the theater."

"We really need that to make the business viable," Dunlap said.

Deaton also suggested there be Sailor Nights, especially for the increasing number of Navy ships that may be coming to the Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach.

"It's so exciting to have our own local theatre and I'm so pleased Mr. Dunlap came to the rescue to help ensure this will be a continuing icon, serving the area for many years to come," said the former Mayor. "Restoring it will go a long way in helping preserve our unique community."
For further information, visit BayTheatre.com.

(An additional note: I've always loved this theatre and have heard stories on how Steven Spielberg used to see movies here while he was a Long Beach State student. My family used to come here every week to see the wonderful Silent Movies. I'm so pleased Paul, Ellery and others are working to make this a Classic Place once again. We're all looking forward to enjoying it.)
 

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