Warnors Theatre photo by Frank Lopez
published on June 3, 2026 – 3:23 PM
Written by Ben Hensley
As Warnors Theatre approaches its 100th anniversary, community organizations and volunteers are stepping up to help preserve one of Downtown Fresno’s most iconic landmarks.
The historic theater, which opened in 1928 and has never undergone a full restoration, continues to serve as a centerpiece of Fresno’s arts and entertainment scene despite decades of wear, changing ownership and economic challenges.
Now, a new volunteer-driven preservation effort is bringing together businesses, community members and theater supporters to help maintain the nearly century-old venue for future generations.
Volunteer effort supports historic theater
Noble Credit Union partnered with Warnors Theatre for a community preservation project held May 30, inviting employees, members and volunteers to participate in cleanup and maintenance activities throughout the building.
The effort coincided with Noble Credit Union’s 85th anniversary and was designed to support an institution with deep historical roots in Fresno.
“We wanted to kind of celebrate our anniversary by giving back to the community that we serve in particular, Fresno,” said Mariah Walton, vice president of marketing for Noble Credit Union. “We wanted to partner with somebody that also had some historic relevance to Fresno, and we thought Warnors was a perfect opportunity.”
Volunteers participated in projects that included repainting the theater’s exterior ticket booth, cleaning seating areas, refurbishing worn chairs and completing general maintenance work throughout the venue. Organizers expected approximately 200 participants, supported by several local businesses.
Historic venue approaches milestone anniversary
Warnors Theatre remains one of the Central Valley’s most significant historic entertainment venues. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the theater is among the last surviving projects associated with theater magnate Alexander Pantages.
Unlike many historic theaters that were later converted into multiplex cinemas, Warnors has largely maintained its original design and purpose. The venue is also home to one of only three Robert Morton theater pipe organs that remain in their original operating locations, according to theater officials.
The theater originally operated within the Warner Bros. theater network but adopted the “Warnors” spelling in 1928 following ownership-related trademark disputes.
Community support remains critical
Warnors Theatre Executive Director Nicole Owens said continued community involvement is essential to protecting the venue’s future.
“As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are always at risk of being underfunded or not being able to keep our doors open potentially,” Owens said. “Many of the cities that have those strong historic theater presence — that is because of the community buy-in.”
Nicole Owens, executive director of Warnors Theatre, stands inside the nearly century-old Downtown Fresno venue, which has never undergone a full restoration. Local organizations and volunteers are partnering to help preserve the historic theater. Photo contributed.
Owens noted that despite nearing its centennial, the theater has never received a comprehensive restoration.
“The fact that she is running so well is a credit to the people who care immensely and have tried to maintain as best as possible,” Owens said.
That dedication extends beyond Fresno.
Karen Warner Sperling, granddaughter of Warner Bros. co-founder Harry Warner, described the theater as a unique piece of entertainment history.
“It holds from vaudeville to now,” Sperling said. “Every young person should go to that theater and breathe in the history of it.”
She said the theater serves as both a cultural landmark and a source of inspiration for future generations.
“When you walk into something that holds all that history and beauty, you feel inspired,” Sperling said. “I think that building holds this inspiration for continuing the legacy of entertainment and creativity.”
As Warnors approaches its 100th year, supporters say preserving the landmark will require continued attendance, volunteerism, philanthropy and community partnerships.
“It’s not just a building,” Sperling said. “It holds the beauty of entertainment, the beauty of art and the beauty of sharing that kind of energy.”