The Masonic Theatre opened its doors recently to guests who learned about the upcoming renovation plans for the 105-year-old landmark.

The evening began with speeches on the future plans for the theatre by John Hillert, president of The Masonic Theatre Preservation Foundation, and Meade Snyder, vice-president of the foundation. Two of the three architects who are planning the renovation work, Keith and Marie Zawistowski, were on hand to show drawings, a model and talk about future plans for the theatre.

A video of area residents reminiscing about the history of the theatre debuted and will be available in the near future on the Masonic Theatre's Web site www.historicmasonictheatre.com.

The Masonic Theatre is celebrating its 105th year in 2010 and community volunteers have been involved in efforts to clean the theatre in addition to contributing to the success of the renovation plans.

Renovation work will span 2010 and 2011. If interested in becoming a theatre volunteer and/or contributing to the renovation, email masonictheatre@yahoo.com.

Source: Virginian Review, Monday, January 11, 2010.