The Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, California is a historical movie theater holding the rich distinction of the oldest continuously operating theaters in California. The theater was originally built as an opera house, in a refurbished adobe school building, by Italian immigrant José Lobero in 1873, but by the early 1920s, the opera house had become abandoned and dilapidated and was rebuilt as a theater in Spanish Colonial Revival style. The new design was created by architects George Washington Smith, and Lutah Maria Riggs. The client was the Drama Branch of the Community Arts Associates, and the Lobero Theater as it is known today opened to the public in 1924.
Throughout its exciting life, the Lobero has hosted a variety of performances, plays, concerts, and more. The theater’s design acknowledging the historical influence of colonial Spain, throughout the region once known as “New Spain” has been an integral part of the cultural scene in Santa Barbara for decades. We at CeremonialSupplies.com love grand openings and groundbreaking events, and each order is a special work of art for us, each element a piece of your creative imagination! CeremonialSupplies.com is the best one-stop shop online for everything you need to throw spectacular grand opening events, film premieres, groundbreaking and cornerstone laying ceremonies, military balls, and every detail that makes your event become unforgettable, and then legendary, like Santa Barbara’s Lobero Theater, and what we at CeremonialSupplies.com imagine its grand opening may have been like, considering the practices of the time:
Date and Occasion: The Lobero Theater was founded by Italian immigrant Jose Lobero in 1873, although the grand opening of the Lobero Theatre most likely took place on a significant date, perhaps marking a special occasion in the community or cultural calendar of the time, and although the Lobero opened as an Opera House, it wasn’t until the early 1920s, when the old opera house was runned down that the new theater opened in August 1924, during a period in which civic groups in Santa Barbara were beginning to unify the town's architectural look around Spanish colonial architecture.
Guest List: Local dignitaries, influential community members, and potentially even state or national figures may have been invited to attend. The guest list might also include prominent figures from the entertainment industry, reflecting the importance of the theater's opening.
Program and Performances: The evening's program would have featured a variety of performances to showcase the theater's versatility. This might include musical acts, theatrical performances, and possibly dance numbers. The selections could range from classical to contemporary, appealing to a broad audience. Some notable artists who have appeared at the Lobero Theatre include:
Duke Ellington: The legendary jazz musician performed at the Lobero Theatre in the 1930s. Igor Stravinsky: The renowned composer and conductor conducted performances at the Lobero Theatre. Charlie Chaplin: The iconic silent film star and comedian made an appearance at the Lobero Theatre. Dave Brubeck: The jazz pianist and composer performed at the Lobero Theatre. Lionel Hampton: The jazz vibraphonist and bandleader also made appearances at the Lobero Theatre. Betty White: The beloved actress participated in events at the Lobero Theatre.
These are just a few examples, and the theater has hosted a diverse array of performers spanning various genres, including music, theater, dance, and more. The Lobero Theatre continues to be a cultural hub in Santa Barbara, showcasing both local talent and internationally acclaimed artists.
Speeches and Ceremonies: The event would likely have opened with speeches, possibly from the theater's founders, local officials, and key individuals involved in its establishment. Ceremonial gestures, such as ribbon-cutting or symbolic key presentations, might have taken place.
Décor and Atmosphere: The theater would have been adorned with elegant decorations to create a festive and celebratory atmosphere. Floral arrangements, draperies, and perhaps even thematic stage designs could have been incorporated to enhance the visual appeal. Ribbons of hues of red in different lengths and widths, complementing the accents would be scattered though out the theater. Gold stanchions directing the flow of traffic upon a red event carpet with the logo of the Lobero theater printed prominently upon it would be the focal point of the attendees as they walk in.
Attire: Attendees would have dressed formally for the occasion, reflecting the significance of the event. This could include evening gowns, tuxedos, and other formal wear typical of the time. Ushers would be in their distinguishable outfits, much the way embroidered shirts, and embroidered polos are used in today’s corporate world of event attire. Check out our carefully selected corporate clothing, safety vests, and washable and reusable printed masks.
Technology and Lighting: Given the time of the Lobero Theatre's opening (1924), the lighting technology would have been a mix of electric and gas lighting. The use of dramatic lighting effects during performances would have been a notable feature. There are many ways the lighting effect can be simulated today and a quick visit to a hardware or lighting store will take care of the rest.
Reception or Gala: Following the performances, there might have been a reception or gala, possibly in a nearby venue or within the theater itself. This would provide an opportunity for attendees to mingle, celebrate, and discuss the success of the grand opening, or any other event taking place at the historical site of the Lobero theatre.
Media Coverage: Local newspapers and potentially even national publications might have covered the grand opening. Photographers and reporters would capture the highlights, contributing to the theater's visibility and importance in the cultural landscape. With the help of the internet and direct communication, a media list is much easier to compile. Include community media outlets in your invitations, and contribute with an ad, in it, mention the names of prominent celebrities or personalities that will be attending. Remember, the media follows celebrities and personalities.
Legacy and Impact: The grand opening would have left a lasting impact on the community, solidifying the Lobero Theatre as a cultural hub. Its success on the opening night would set the tone for its continued significance in the decades to come. This cultural gem hosts local and nationally known events from Santa Barbara Choral Society to the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, as well as notable artists like Pat Metheny, Jeff Bridges, Bill Frisell, and Charles Lloyd, who credit the Lobero among their favorite venues. While this imaginative list of preparations is speculative, it is based on the general practices and expectations associated with the grand openings of cultural institutions during the early 20th century.
Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for personalized grand opening ribbons, ceremonial ribbon-cutting scissors, groundbreaking shovels, stands and display cases, hard hats, corporate attire, military flags, medals, and special display cases, logo-printed event carpets, tablecloths and many, more products. You will love our quality and budget friendly prices, our knowledgeable and friendly customer service, and our fast and efficient shipping. Click here for a quote.