The Ritz Theatre in downtown Corpus Christi has remained relatively untouched for decades.
In recent weeks, workers have identified the original paint colors inside the theater. On May 29, the team from EverGreene Architectural Arts was working to paint a floor-to-ceiling section of the theater to resemble its original 1929 design, including decorative elements.
At the same time, architects are working on a design for a full rehabilitation of the building. The freshly painted sections will help designers ensure the rest of the rehabilitation project matches the inside of the theater, The Ritz Executive Director Arthur Seago said.
“This is just the first step of the rehabilitation,” Seago said.
The Ritz opened in 1929, back when movies with sound were a recent innovation. The theater was renovated a few times over the years, including in the 1940s. A large open lobby space was dissected into two stories, seats were replaced and carpets added.
But in 1972, the theater closed. It reopened a couple years later as a music hall, hosting concerts before it eventually closed again in 1989. For the next 17 years, it stood empty. Revitalization efforts kicked up in 2006, but actual restoration work has been slow to follow.
The project was chosen to receive $30 million from the Texas Preservation Trust Fund about a year ago. Additionally, private donors have pledged support, Seago said.
The Ritz Theatre organization is still fundraising, but Seago said that it is about halfway to its funding goal.
The work being done in May and June will set the stage for the full rehabilitation project. As much as possible, the team intends to return the theater to its 1929 appearance, including cleaning up original tilework, repainting walls and decorative elements, opening up the lobby area and uncovering windows.
In the empty lot beside the theater, the team plans to build an annex, including restrooms and other modern spaces.
Seago said that rehabilitation construction will begin in February or March. The project should be complete in 2029 — in time for the building’s 100th anniversary, Seago said.
“This is going to be an entertainment facility anchored by a historic theater,” Seago said.
Seago envisions the building hosting galas, plays, concerts, corporate events and weddings. In the meantime, the organization is holding events at other venues, including a documentary screening planned for June 17 at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History. The documentary focuses on the history of segregation in Texas high school football, including the story of the 1960 Miller High School Buccaneers, the first racially integrated team to win a UIL state football championship.
Olivia Garrett covers education and community news in South Texas. Have a story idea? Contact her at olivia.garrett@caller.com.
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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Fresh paint: Here’s the latest on The Ritz Theatre revitalization
Reporting by Olivia Garrett, Corpus Christi Caller Times / Corpus Christi Caller Times
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