By James Day
The new owners of the Palace Theatre say that they likely will not be able to reopen until this fall or winter because of the complicated nature of the remodeling they are doing.
Thomas and Erika Baham, who also own the two-screen Rio complex in Sweet Home, took over the historic Silverton theater in May.
“Remodeling is going well, thanks,” Thomas Baham told Our Town in an email exchange. Baham, who is doing the bulk of the remodeling work himself, said there haven’t been any problems, “but I am just one man, with limited funds every month.”
The Bahams are engaged in Amercans With Disabilities Act (ADA) work as well as interior renovations that will end the perpetual clog of patrons, concessions purchasers and restroom visitors near the front door and alter the seating arrangements.
Baham also told Our Town that the new Palace will have a smaller seat count than its predecessors.
“There will be a seat reduction, yes,” he said. “The seats were too close (together) and very uncomfortable. I removed all seats without cup holders, replacing them with newer chairs. I am also installing three rows of recliners, and those take a lot of space to accommodate. But it will be worth it when complete.”
Baham said he did not yet have a number for the new seat count.
