Sun Theater – Revisited – Part 1
Date Posted: July 29, 2016
Posted In: Ideas,
From Lawrence Group: Anyone tired of hearing me talk about the Sun Theater Historical Restoration yet? Well tough. But I am going to highlight something that I have not highlighted before. The extensive plaster restoration that took place. This is the most eye popping and jaw dropping part of the restoration (at least that’s what I think!)
Well let’s start with my first visit to the space. Aside from some sunlight coming from a “skylight” (hole in the roof) it was pitch black in the theater. It was clear that the elements had their way for quite some time. We cautiously walked across the stage being careful not to fall through. As we walked into the theater we turned our flashlights on the space and only then did we really understand the magnitude of what we were attempting.
So just a quick background on what you are looking at. This is the main stage opening (proscenium), and the photo was taken from the balcony. Since this project was a historical rehabilitation we had guidelines on what was to be restored and how. The main interior historical features are the ornate plaster around the proscenium, balconies, and ceiling medallion. You can see that there are large (gigantic) sections that are damaged or non-existent. So now that we have established that, let’s move on to the process.
The first question that is asked the most is “where do you even begin?” I certainly asked myself that question several times. But really the first steps are to start peeling back the layers until you get to the “good stuff” or the bones that you will use to rebuild the plaster and everything else on.