This petition is to prevent the destruction of the historic Hilliard Square Theater in Lakewood Ohio.
The theatre opened as the Hilliard Square Theatre in 1927 and was built for vaudeville and motion pictures. The seating capacity is given as 1,500 in editions of Film Daily Yearbook through the 1940’s and 1950’s, although in reality it could be 1,200 (800 in the orchestra, 400 in the balcony). It changed its name to the Westwood Theatre in around 1962. By the 1980’s, the theatre started showing sub-run Hollywood fare, toward the end charging only 50 cents admission!
The theatre closed in 1988. The building is still standing, and nothing has been done to the theatre since it closed.
The City of Lakewood now has plans to demolish the site, which have grown out of proportion and the demolition costs are far exceeding the original estimate of $200,000. to $300,000 to an estimated $700.00. It is our belief that this is not the best use for the theater. We would like to see the building restored and used as an historical and cultural meeting place for the community of Lakewood where patrons can see live shows, movies including vintage movies, musical acts, informative speakers and community events. In a city in excess of 50,00 residents we feel that not having this outlet for everyone from teenage to twighlight lessens the value of our community when it comes to providing a valuabe entertainment outlet. This is our vision for Hilliard Square Theater Theater; please help by signing our petition.
