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WHEREAS, The Kelly Strayhorn Theater originally opened in 1914 as the 1,100 seat Regent Theatre, a silent film movie house. Designed by architect Harry S. Bair it featured a grand theater organ that provided live music to the films; and,
WHEREAS, the theater was closed by the 1950s but had a grand reopening as an 850-seat theater on July 18, 1965 following a $175,000 renovation under Ernest Stern's Associated Theaters. The Regent largely served as a concert space before closing again in 1997. The current theater reopened in 2001 and was renamed to honor Gene Kelly and Billy Strayhorn. A commemorative "Walk of Stars" recognizing artists, friends, fans, and family members of the theater was installed at its entrance; and,
WHEREAS, The Kelly Strayhorn Theater carries on the legacy of its founders by fostering bold and innovative artistry with a global perspective. The theater celebrates diversity in voice, thought, and expression, and upholds a firm commitment to inclusion. Furthermore, KST provides a safe and welcome space for dialogue and artistic expression for all who enter; and,
WHEREAS, in 2008, Janera Solomon was appointed as the theater's executive director. Under her leadership, the theater expanded to increase its original programming and funding. Kelly Strayhorn Theater is now recognized as a progressive cultural center. Its programs, such as the New Moves Contemporary Dance Festival, which features new work in dance, and World Stage, which supports new performances by international artists, have helped the theater gain local and national recognition; and,
WHEREAS, in September 2018, the Kelly Strayhorn Theater celebrates its 10 year revival from being a fledgling rental venue to vibrant community anchor; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend the Kelly Strayhorn Theater for continuing to be a staple of entertainment in East Liberty; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the...
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