Renovation work began yesterday at the historic Drexel Theatre in Bexley. All three theatre rooms will receive state-of-the-art digital projection and sound upgrades featuring Dolby digital sound, Christie digital projectors and all new screens. Additionally, the barrel roof of the theatre will be replaced along with the 10-ton HVAC system that services the largest of the theatre rooms.
“Having now stabilized the theatre financially, Friends of the Drexel is now focused on the condition of the physical plant which has deteriorated for years,” said Richard Stoff, Chairman of Friends of the Drexel, Inc. “These first critical steps – beginning with a new roof – will protect the basic structure of the building and equip the Drexel to be more competitive in the market by providing an improved theatre-going experience for our patrons.”
Stoff added that a complete renovation of the theatre is being explored in the future.
Due to ongoing construction and installation work, screenings scheduled before 4pm on December 12 and December 19 have been cancelled. The renovations are scheduled to be completed before the end of the year.
In related news, the Big Deal Diner concept that was proposed for the former Radio Cafe space has been shelved. No other updates on a new use for the restaurant space are available at this time.
More information can be found online at www.drexel.net.
Drexel photo by Nicholas Herum of www.movieshateyoutoo.com.