Business Spotlight: Friends of the Fox - Preserving History, Revitalizing Community
07/24/2023
Welcome to this week's business spotlight, where we focus on remarkable enterprises that make a difference in their communities. Today, we shine the spotlight on Friends of the Fox Theater, a voluntary organization dedicated to preserving the rich history and cultural significance of the Bob Hope/Fox California Theatre, a true gem interwoven into the heart of Stockton, California.
A Journey of Preservation and Revitalization
The story of Friends of the Fox begins in December 1995 when a group of passionate individuals came together with a common vision - to support the restoration and continued use of the Friends of the Fox Theater. These dedicated individuals firmly believed that the theater played a pivotal role in the revitalization of downtown Stockton, and they set out to ensure its legacy would live on for generations to come.
The journey was not without challenges. When the City of Stockton leased the Friends of the Fox Theater from its owners, Lawton and Merlo, they saw an opportunity to transform the theater into the "Crown Jewel" of the city's revitalization efforts. Over the years, the organization worked tirelessly alongside city officials, offering advice and resolving issues with preservation authorities. Their collective efforts bore fruit, and in January 2002, the theater closed its doors for major renovation.
Preserving History, Reviving Splendor
Originally known as T&D Photoplay, the theater has stood proudly since its construction in 1930. After a rich history, it closed its doors in 1973, but its legacy endured. Madeleine Lawton and Edward C. Merlo purchased the building in 1979, and the theater was later donated to the city in 2000.
Restoration efforts were bolstered by the generosity of Alex G. Spanos, leading to the theater being renamed the Bob Hope Theatre in honor of the legendary entertainer Bob Hope, a close friend of Mr. Spanos. Through additional grants and community efforts, the theater underwent extensive renovations, including the preservation of its original chandelier and tile in the exterior lobby.
Bringing Back the Magic: The Resurrected Organ
One of the most captivating elements of the restoration was the resurrection of a 1928 Robert Morton theater organ, previously used to accompany silent movies in Seattle's Fox Theater. Friends of the Fox and the Sierra Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society worked diligently to restore this magnificent instrument to its former glory.
The refurbished organ made its triumphant concert debut in the Bob Hope Theatre in 2005 and continues to enchant audiences during classic movie showings, bringing back the magic of a bygone era.
A Triumph of Community Spirit
In September 2004, after years of dedication and hard work, the refurbished Friends of the Fox Theatre reopened its doors to the public. Jerry Seinfeld graced the stage, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the theater's illustrious history.
The Friends of the Fox Theater's efforts have not only preserved a vital piece of Stockton's cultural heritage but have also breathed new life into downtown Stockton, creating a hub for entertainment and fostering a sense of community pride.
Today, as the Friends of the Fox Theatre continues to shine brightly, we celebrate the enduring spirit of Friends of the Fox - a beacon of hope and inspiration for communities everywhere.
For more information on Friends of the Fox Theater, visit www.foxfriends.org or follow them on social media.
You can become a member of the Friends of the Fox in support of Stockton’s significant historical theatre by calling (209) 373-1400 and ask about membership!
Upcoming Events:
August 13 - To Catch a Thief
September 17 - Back to the Future
October 22 - Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein
November 5 – Silent Movie Double Feature Accompanied with the Mighty Morton Organ. Starting with Cartoon, followed by The Kid and One Week
December 10 – It’s a Wonderful Life
Doors open at 1:00 pm, organ concert at 1:30 pm, movie at 2:00 pm
Tickets $12 adults/$6 kids are available when doors open or at www.foxfriends.org
242 East Main Street, Stockton, CA 95202
This blog post is a tribute to the dedication and passion of Friends of the Fox and the historic Bob Hope Theatre in Stockton, California. Let's support and celebrate the incredible work of organizations like this that breathe life into our shared cultural heritage.