Crighton Theatre Sells Historic Seats for Renovation

**Crighton Theatre Sells Historic Seats to Fund Landmark Renovation Project**

**Conroe, TX – May 28, 2024** – For those with a love for local history or a desire for truly unique seating, Conroe’s historic Crighton Theatre is offering a rare opportunity: the sale of its original, nearly 89-year-old seats. These aren’t just any chairs; they are the very seats that have been in continuous use since the theatre triumphantly reopened in 1935 following a devastating fire.

The iconic seats, known for their upholstered velvet and sturdy cast-iron frames, are being sold to make way for a comprehensive, multi-million-dollar renovation project. This marks the first time these particular seats have been replaced since their installation after the 1935 rebuilding.

“These seats have held generations of Conroe residents, watching countless movies, plays, and concerts,” said Sarah Miller, President of the Crighton Theatre Board of Directors. “They are tangible pieces of our city’s cultural heart, and while it’s bittersweet to see them go, their sale is crucial for ushering in a new era of comfort and technological advancement for our patrons.”

Described as “well-loved” but still solid and full of character, individual seats are available for $150. For those seeking a pair that cannot be safely separated, the cost is $250. It’s a first-come, first-served situation, and interested buyers are encouraged to email crightoninfo@gmail.com to secure their piece of Conroe history. Pickup for purchased seats will be self-service between June 3 and June 14, 2024, as shipping is not being offered.

The sale is a vital component of a larger, roughly $1 million renovation project aimed at modernizing the nearly century-old venue. Beyond new seating, the ambitious overhaul will include new carpeting, state-of-the-art lighting, and a cutting-edge sound system, promising an enhanced experience for both performers and audience members.

“Our goal is to preserve the historic charm and architectural grandeur of the Crighton while bringing its infrastructure into the 21st century,” explained Miller. “The new seating will offer improved comfort and accessibility, and the technological upgrades will allow us to host an even wider range of world-class productions.”

As of this publication, the theatre has successfully raised approximately $100,000 towards its $1 million goal. The seat sale is expected to significantly boost these fundraising efforts, and the theatre board is actively pursuing additional grants and community donations to complete the project, with hopes of reopening the fully renovated auditorium in late 2024 or early 2025.

The Crighton Theatre, located at 234 N Main St in downtown Conroe, boasts a rich and storied past. It originally opened in 1933 as the Rex Theatre but suffered a devastating fire shortly after. Rebuilt and renamed the Crighton in 1935 in honor of its original owner, W.L. Crighton, who passed away that year, it served as a beloved movie house for decades. In 1979, thanks to dedicated community efforts, it was beautifully restored and reopened as a premier performing arts venue, hosting local theatrical groups, musical acts, and various cultural events.

“Buying one of these seats isn’t just acquiring a chair; it’s investing in a tangible piece of Conroe’s enduring legacy,” Miller added. “It’s supporting the arts, preserving history, and helping us build a vibrant future for live entertainment in our community.”

For general information about the Crighton Theatre and its upcoming season, visit crightontheatre.org. To purchase historic seats, email crightoninfo@gmail.com.