Places to visit in York, PA
Appell Center for the Performing Arts
The Appell Center for the Performing Arts is a destination for live entertainment in York. The Appell Center provides something for everyone, bringing audiences everything from the biggest names in music to up-and-coming acts, Broadway theatre to stand-up comedy. The Strand Theatre, with 1,262 seats, and the Capitol Theatre, with 450 seats, are both historic theatres from the early 1900s. The Strand Theatre, built in 1925, and the Capitol Theatre, built in 1906, are two historic theaters in the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, each with its own history. The York neighborhood is enriched with the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, which provides performing arts, education, and entertainment. The Appell Center for the Performing Arts hosts some of the most well-known names in live, professional performing arts, as well as educational activities. And it is thanks to Louis Appell, Jr. that the people of York have such a wonderful meeting place that draws everyone together for shared experiences. This grand theater was part of the fiber of Louis Appell. Three generations of his family have been involved in the project. The Strand was erected in 1925 by Louis’ grandfather, Nathan Appell. Louis Sr., his father, was also instrumental in the company’s continued growth. The 1,262-seat Strand Theatre is a gleaming example of Italian Renaissance architecture, with 1,800 pounds of gold leaf on the walls and paintings gracing the walls. The Strand Theatre, which cost over $1 million to build, thrived during the roaring twenties’ days of vaudeville and silent film, and continued to play films until February 1976, when it closed. The Capitol Theatre, once known as “The Theatorium” and then “The Jackson,” was designed as a one-level dancing hall, with a balcony added in 1917 for movies. The Strand Theatre’s builders, Nathan Appell and Louis Appell Sr., acquired The Jackson in 1926, rebuilt it, and reopened it as the Capitol Theatre in 1927. The cinema remained a popular movie venue until 1977. York community leaders joined together in the spring of 1976 to gather funds and create plans for the refurbishment of both theatres. The Strand Theatre reopened with a spectacular concert by Ella Fitzgerald and the York Symphony Orchestra on April 12, 1980. In May of 1981, the Capitol Theatre reopened with a completely repaired 1927 Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. In September 2003, a two-year, $18.1 million refurbishment project was completed. The Strand Lobby was widened, and concession facilities were increased, as well as a balcony, new seating, and instructional space. Every ticket purchased contributes $2 to the upkeep and preservation of our historic theaters.
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