About Strand Theater/ Cinema Assoc.INC
Kendallville’s Strand Theatre is one of the oldest continually operating theaters in the United States. Edward Spencer opened the Spencer Opera House in 1890, costing $29,000, on the former site of the Blockbuster Hotel. The ornately decorated opera house could seat 750 patrons and included a dress circle, balcony seating, and box seats. The Spencer Opera House opened in September 1890 with the play, “Edmund Kean”, starring Marlande Clarke. It also hosted opera, legitimate theater, and minstrel shows.
The Keep the Lights On committee partnered with the Kendallville Redevelopment Commission to purchase the equipment. So that even if the Strand owners decide to retire or sell the business, the city of Kendallville would own the equipment, ensuring that the Strand would stay in operation for generations to come.
The various groups involved in the fundraising effort received an overwhelmingly positive response, and subsequently, within a matter of a few months, were able to exceed their goal of raising $110,000. Raising money to save the Strand was an aggressive goal, yet the people of Kendallville rallied and showed that they were not willing to let their local theater die.
On account of the efforts and donations by students and citizens of the area, the historic theater was saved, and the Strand Theatre is proud to live on in the heart of downtown Kendallville as Noble County’s only theater.