Last week, we took a trip to New Castle, PA. We learned that the Warner Brothers entertainment empire was started in New Castle when the family opened a small movie theater in 1907. That trip sparked my curiosity about a certain theater here in Erie.
Erie’s Warner Theatre was opened by the Warner Brothers in 1931. It was one of many large theaters owned and operated by the entertainment icons during that era. The theaters were spectacular even though most were built in the depression era. The Erie Warner was built at a cost of $1.5 million, which was amazing back then. The outdoor marquee has the exact same flashy design today as it did in 1931.
Barry Copple is giving me a tour. He is the longtime general operations manager for the Warner. Barry says he still is awestruck when he enters the building from State Street. It is a breathtaking sight.
“If you look up at the ceiling, it’s all gold-silver leafing throughout,” he tells me.
Whenever the Warner Brothers built a new theater, they wanted the interior to include something unique that relates to the city in which it is located. Erie has the lake. Barry says that’s why you can see gold and silver fish designs on the ceiling.
“It’s kind of neat,” he says with a smile.
The Warner underwent a $37 million renovation project only a few years ago. It’s 1931 beauty remains. The original terrazzo floor is still there. Original tables and chairs in the long lobby area have been refurbished. They are tables and chairs that would normally be found in a palace. 13 original oil paintings are still hanging and are still beautiful.
“It’s amazing what you can do with a paintbrush,” says Barry. “Some of them look like photographs.”
Barry shows me a decorative tile fountain where water once trickled from the wall. I notice an a drinking fountain that is now an antique. Drinking fountains were quite stylish back in the 1930s. Original lighted signs remain throughout the theater. Inside the seating area, the tapestry material on the walls and the main curtain has been replaced, but the tassels and fringe are still the original.
The Warner has expanded and modernized to include many new additions. However, the original 1931 sound board from the stage area was saved and now holds a place of honor inside a new rehearsal hall. Barry remembers when the decision was made to display the old piece of equipment.
“We said, ‘we can’t just take this and throw it away.” recalls Barry.
Take my advice. Next time you are in this magnificent building, instead of rushing to your seat, take some time to admire its beauty.