Crighton Theatre Seating Upgrade Planned

**Crighton Theatre Kicks Off Major Campaign for Historic Seating Overhaul**

**CONROE, TX –** Conroe’s beloved Crighton Theatre, a beacon of arts and culture on Main Street since 1935, is embarking on a crucial “Preserve the Legacy” campaign to revitalize its aging interior, with a primary focus on replacing all 497 patron seats. The ambitious project aims to significantly enhance comfort and accessibility for theatregoers, ensuring the historic venue remains a vibrant hub for generations to come.

The current seating, installed during a major renovation in 1983-84, is nearing its 40-year mark and showing significant signs of wear. Cindy Leasure, the Crighton’s managing director, has candidly described the seats as “deteriorating.” Patrons frequently report issues ranging from rocking and squeaking to visible fabric tears and protruding springs, detracting from the overall theatre experience.

“These seats have witnessed countless standing ovations, uproarious laughter, and poignant moments over four decades,” Leasure stated. “While they hold a lot of history, they are no longer serving our patrons effectively. We want everyone who walks through our doors to have a truly comfortable and immersive experience, free from distractions.”

The theatre is actively campaigning to raise approximately $300,000 specifically for the new seating, with each state-of-the-art replacement seat costing $600. This is part of a larger $500,000 “Preserve the Legacy” campaign, which also includes essential upgrades such as new stage curtains and critical electrical system modernizations. As of recent updates, the campaign has already surpassed the $100,000 mark, demonstrating strong community support.

A cornerstone of the fundraising effort is the unique opportunity for donors to “name” a seat. For a $600 contribution, a small, personalized plaque will be affixed to the back of a new seat, offering a lasting tribute and a tangible connection to supporting the local arts scene. This initiative allows individuals, families, and businesses to leave their indelible mark on the theatre’s future.

The new seats promise a substantial upgrade in patron comfort and experience. They are designed to be wider, offering more legroom, and will include convenient cup holders – a modern amenity currently lacking. Enhanced padding and durable, aesthetically pleasing fabric will not only provide a more luxurious feel but also simplify maintenance for the theatre staff.

“We envision a theatre where every performance is enjoyed in peak comfort,” said Mike Wood, President of the Crighton Theatre Foundation Board. “Beyond the seats, the new curtains will elevate our stage presentations, and the electrical upgrades are vital for safety and modern production needs. This campaign isn’t just about repairs; it’s about preserving the Crighton’s legacy as a first-class performing arts venue for Conroe and Montgomery County.”

The Crighton Theatre, originally built as a vaudeville and movie house, has been a cultural cornerstone of Conroe’s downtown revitalization. Purchased and lovingly restored by the Crighton Theatre Foundation in the early 1980s, it has since hosted thousands of local and touring productions, concerts, and community events, playing a pivotal role in the region’s artistic landscape.

The ambitious goal is to have all the new, plush seating installed by summer 2025, ready to welcome audiences for upcoming seasons and ensure the theatre’s continued prominence as a cultural gem.

For more information on the “Preserve the Legacy” campaign, to name a seat, or to make a donation, please visit CrightonTheatre.org or contact the theatre box office directly at (936) 441-7469.