The Daily OrangeForward progress
By Garrett Larsen
Posted: 9/9/08, 12:53 AM EST Section: News
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The premiere - complete with an "orange carpet" for the stars of the film - is the result of months of planning by SU, the City of Syracuse and the Landmark Theatre.
Built in the 1920s, 30 years before Davis attended SU, the Landmark Theatre hosts more than 100 events per year and operates as a charitable organization. Some of that money goes toward maintaining the 80-year-old theater, which had minor renovations done for Friday's event.
Universal Pictures donated a new screen for the premiere, said Landmark Theatre executive director Denise DiRienzo. The theater had been operating with the same vinyl screen since the first day it was opened.
Landmark Theatre currently contributes to the greater Syracuse community by bringing in significant revenue for the downtown area.
"We definitely have an impact," DiFrienzo said. "We brought $12 million into the local economy last year from money going out to restaurants, bars, taverns and payroll."
Currently, the theater is beginning a capital campaign to raise money to expand the stage area and install new electronics and lightning. Following this year's minor world premiere renovations, the Landmark Theatre hopes to add new lifts and a more modern electrical system in order to eventually host Broadway shows.
During the event, Jefferson and South Salina Street will be closed off so bleachers can be placed for the public to watch stars arrive for the premiere. After the film, the stars and guests of the premiere will go to the War Memorial for a theme party, featuring entertainment reminiscent of the late 1950s.
According to SU's website, all net proceeds from the premiere will benefit the Ernie Davis fund.
gklarsen@syr.edu
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Mary Lurie
posted 9/09/08 @ 9:03 AM EST
As an SU graduate (A&S'79) and a girl born and raised in Elmira (EFA'75), I have been looking forward to seeing this film. I hope the studio gives it good distribtion, so I have the chance to see it in NJ. (Continued…)
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