Cascade Theatre: Art Deco Jewel of Redding

The Cascade Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Redding, is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. Designed by J. Lloyd Conrich of San Francisco, the theater first opened its doors on August 9, 1935, as a state-of-the-art movie palace with 1,348 seats. It quickly became a cultural hub for the region, offering not only films but also vaudeville performances. The theater's exterior is notable for its vertical neon sign and a frieze depicting California industries. The interior was equally impressive, boasting custom light fixtures, detailed ceilings, and murals. Over the years, the Cascade Theatre faced challenges, including a renovation in 1977 that divided the main auditorium into smaller theaters and covered many of the original Art Deco features. The theater eventually closed in 1997. In the early 2000s, Southern Oregon University and the JPR Foundation purchased the building and began an extensive restoration project. The restoration, completed in 2004, returned the theater to its original configuration and grandeur, with restored murals, gold and silver gilding, and a state-of-the-art performance space. Today, the Cascade Theatre hosts a diverse range of events, from concerts and theatrical productions to film screenings and community gatherings.