Oceanside CA— On Friday evening, July 3rd at 7:00 pm, The Board of Directors of The Historic Star Theatre in Oceanside will unveil the original neon marquee restored to its 1956 glory. It is the largest neon marquee west of the Mississippi River and one of the largest neon marquees in operation in the United States. The dedication ceremony will take place as part of the Oceanside Art Walk that celebrates the thriving theater and arts district in the heart of downtown Oceanside on the first Friday of the month. The evening will include an art exhibit in the theater, a musical performance, refreshments, and entertainment by the Star Theatre’s 50’s-60’s band, “Not Fade Away.”
Restoring the marquee is part of a dream that began 15 years ago when The Poinsettia Center for the Arts purchased The Historic Star Theatre in Oceanside. They were looking for a venue where both adults and children of North Coast San Diego County could practice the performing arts. Today, the theater is home to the Star Theatre Company, Star Theatre Coast Kids, and The Star Theatre Academy and is a desired performing space for many local theater groups, musicians, and schools. The theater is used every week of the year and provides a safe, clean environment with knowledgeable staff and high visibility.
The theatre chose to restore the sign with neon rather than remodel it using LED lights. It was a huge project that required special expertise and months of hard work, and thanks to Clear Sign of San Marcos the Star Theatre marquee once again shines brightly. Although the majority of the $101,000 cost to restore the marquee has been donated, and we welcome tax-deductible gifts of any size to help retire the remaining debt.
Built in 1956, The Star Theatre began as a movie theater and has been a North County treasure ever since. Designated an historic landmark in 1998, the Star offers a 440-seat theater in the heart of downtown Oceanside. The Star is a place where family, friends, tourists, and local residents come to enjoy an evening of music or drama.
Theater operation is managed by four full-time professionals: David Schulz, Managing Artistic Director; Sandra Kopitzke Associate Producer / Resident Music Director; Nicholas Prax, Technical Director; and Katie Marquardt, Production & Operations Manager