You’ve been waiting to see something happen at the theatre for far too long.

Well we’re listening. And plan to make sure you know where things stand until the new plaster goes up, restrooms are updated and new seats are installed.

That’s why when you hit byrdtheatrefoundation.org, you now see a blog.

Big things are happening, and we want you to be a part of it, every step of the way.

In truth, the foundation has made many strides since 2007, keeping the theatre open and operational. We’ve replaced the roof, purchased a digital server, made necessary organ repairs, replaced the boiler and right now, working to complete install of a new chiller. But to be fair, all things you could easily have missed.

Our next project will be restoring the historic blade signage and 1937 marquee. That should prove harder to lose sight of.

It’s one in a series of projects planned as part of overall restoration, to be completed oh, within the next 1000 days or so. 2017 is our target, with the capstone, of course, being new seats.

So please bookmark the page, sign up for our email updates, connect with us on social media, or  just stop by the theatre from time to time. Because the most important thing you can do to help make restoration a reality is by staying informed and sharing with others.

Curator’s Corner: Side Sections Completed

Curator’s Corner: Side Sections Completed

The Curator’s Corner Theater Seat Replacement Project Completed!   Welcome to The Curator's Corner. I am David Voelkel, Director of Historic Preservation and Chief Curator for The Byrd Theatre Foundation and writing to share with you some information on one of our...

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Curator’s Corner: Electrical

Curator’s Corner: Electrical

Curator’s Corner The 1928 Westinghouse Electrical System Project Sometimes the dark is not atmospheric. When The Byrd Theatre opened to the public in December 1928 the architect, Frederick A. Bishop, had borrowed from the exciting movement in American theaters – the...

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Curator’s Corner: Side Sections Start

Curator’s Corner: Side Sections Start

The Curator’s Corner The Reinhart Auditorium Side Sections Seat Replacement Project Commences Welcome to The Curator's Corner. I am David Voelkel, Director of Historic Preservation and Chief Curator for The Byrd Theatre Foundation and writing to share with you some...

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Curator’s Corners: Historic Building

Curator’s Corners: Historic Building

The Curator’s Corner What Is Considered to be a Historic Building? Welcome back to The Curator's Corner. I am David Voelkel, Director of Historic Preservation and Chief Curator for The Byrd Theatre Foundation and writing to share with you some information on one of...

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Curator’s Corner: Balcony Seat Replacement

Curator’s Corner: Balcony Seat Replacement

The Curator’s Corner The opening of the W.M. Davenport Family Balcony Welcome once again to The Curator's Corner. I am David Voelkel, Director of Historic Preservation and Chief Curator for The Byrd Theatre Foundation and writing to share with you an update on one of...

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Curator’s Corner

Curator’s Corner

Exciting times at the landmark Byrd Theatre! On January 10, 2025, The Byrd Theatre Foundation and Rohlfs Pipe Organ Services commenced the restoration process for the Tibia Clausa rank of pipes in the 1928 WurliTzer theater organ. Thanks to the generosity of a local...

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Richmond’s French Film Festival Canceled for 2023 Season

Richmond’s French Film Festival Canceled for 2023 Season

Richmond, VA - March 9, 2023: In a brief announcement, Dr. Peter S. Kirkpatrick, co-director and co-founder of the French Film Festival, stated that organizers would be unable to hold the 29th annual French Film Festival scheduled to be held March 30-April 2, 2023. He...

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