The Lompoc Theatre Project, a cherished cultural cornerstone of Santa Barbara County, has received a transformative $6 million donation from philanthropist Cheryl Goldberg, propelling the restoration of the historic theater to new heights. This generous contribution brings the total funding for the Lompoc Theatre Centennial Renovation to an impressive $18.9 million, marking a significant milestone in the project's journey. With the theater set to reopen in 2028, this donation is a testament to the power of community support and the enduring legacy of cultural preservation.
Cheryl Goldberg, a music educator and esteemed board member of the Music Academy of the West, has played a pivotal role in this endeavor. Her $5 million donation directly fuels the restoration and reopening of the theater, while an additional $1 million establishes the Cheryl Goldberg Santa Barbara Performing Arts Fund. This fund is a visionary initiative that will serve as a multi-year resource for performing arts organizations across the county, fostering collaboration and community engagement. Mark Herrier, Executive Director of the Lompoc Theatre Project, expressed profound gratitude for Goldberg's vision and belief in the theater's potential. He emphasized the fund's role in bridging the gap between North and South County through the arts, creating a lasting connection between these communities.
The Lompoc Theatre, initially opening its doors in 1927, has been a vibrant hub for live concerts, films, and community celebrations. However, it fell into disuse in 1991, leading to the formation of the Lompoc Theatre Project in 2012 with the ambitious goal of restoration. The project has garnered support from notable figures such as Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Brad Hall, as well as local organizations like 19six Architects and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. The restoration will result in a 450-seat historic auditorium, education and rehearsal studios for local youth, state-of-the-art acoustics, lighting, and theatrical technology, and the restoration of the Land Office, a historic wooden building.
As the theater undergoes construction, it will temporarily operate as an 8-guest intimate performance venue starting in early 2027, allowing patrons to experience the magic of live performances while the renovation continues. The grand reopening in Spring 2028 promises to be a momentous occasion, marking the resurgence of a cultural landmark that has enriched the lives of Santa Barbara County residents for generations. This donation and the subsequent restoration are a testament to the enduring power of the arts and the profound impact they can have on communities.
