Opened in 1913 as the "Majestic," This was the town's largest and most impressive theater when it opened, seating just over 350.
The Majestic contained not only the theater, but store fronts as well. Some of it's internal plaster work, and metal work was based upon that seen by architects in the Chicago theaters. The theater presented both vaudeville, and concerts, in addition to movies on its tiny stage at the time. The last vaudeville act on its stage, was in 1929. In 1930, the theater was wired for sound films, after being closed for about a year for remodeling. Also, when the newly remodeled theater reopened, it had a new name, "The New Paxton Theater." A new marquee was also put up around this time. Not long after the first name change, another name change came along, and the theater was then called the Paxtionian Theater. In 1935, air-conditioning was installed, and another name change came along, and the theater simply became the "Paxton Theater." This name would remain for around 5 decades. In the 1950's Cinemascope, and Vistavision films would play on the Paxton theater's movie screen. By the end of the 70's however, business was falling off at the theater, despite blockbusters such as "Rocky," and "Star Wars" having great sucess at the Paxton Theater. A new owner came along in 1983, and attempted to lure new patrons by remodeling the aging theater, installing new seating, and restoring the old marquee. However, within a year, the theater closed. Four years later, the theater was re-opened by a community theater group called the Paxton Majestic Theater Group, in order to hold legitimate theater productions. The group renamed the theater back to the Paxton Majestic Theater, and further restored the building, reducing the seating to 219. For many years, the Paxton Majestic hosted many live performances, as well as children's theater, dinner theater, and film screenings. The theater closed in 2005, and sadly burned to the ground in a terrible blaze on November 13, 2007.
My son and I personally performed as musicians in the musical pit orchestra for several musicals, and my son performed in one production as an actor. This was a wonderful place with great memories for me and many in the community. I am placing this easy P&G in memory of the theater. It is in a beautiful little park on the grounds where the theater once stood. Please do not disturb if there is a private party at the site. Otherwise, enjoy the park and the town. Perhaps you'll stop and eat at one of our restaurants, or browse our shops. This is a great town!