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Viewpoint: An eye on the Patricia

by Sharlene Reid As I drove home today from work, taking the long way, I paused as I approached Ash and Marine avenues. I parked my car and looked across the street at the historic Patricia Theatre.

by Sharlene Reid As I drove home today from work, taking the long way, I paused as I approached Ash and Marine avenues. I parked my car and looked across the street at the historic Patricia Theatre. I have been to the theatre many times over the years--whether attending a movie with a friend, or by myself; or even going to the occasional event (such as the recent Christmas concert). I was saddened to think such a part of my life is facing a battle that is no doubt going to be one of the biggest stumbling blocks it has seen in its years of history.

I closed my eyes and could only imagine the Patricia in its heyday. The men and ladies dressed in their finest attending the newest feature movie. Children feeling as though they too were a part of the action as they watched their favourite characters come to life on the big screen. I opened my eyes and saw Ann Nelson; we exchanged a wave.

I feel there is a sense of history behind those doors of the charming theatre where I love to spend an evening. How saddened I would feel if it were to close down, forever.

We keep up with technology in our homes and our everyday lives--we have the microwave-ready meals, we have washers and dryers to do our laundry. And oh yes, we have the capability to watch the latest and biggest blockbuster movies from the comforts of our own home through Netflix. But yet we are afraid to support technology to allow the historic Patricia Theatre to operate, bringing an evening’s entertainment for people of all ages.

Times change, sometimes not for the better. We woefully must keep up with some technology in order to see things survive. The theatre struggles alongside a city that is facing a questionable future.

For those within our community, who find an excuse not to attend a movie at the Patricia Theatre, I feel sorry for them. Not only due to the fact the theatre is located in the historic (and perhaps forgotten) part of our town, but the atmosphere in general. Ann and Brian Nelson, and their entire staff at the theatre, as well as Friends of the Historic Patricia Theatre and the Townsite Historical Society, have done a great job for our small corner of the city. It is sad to think that less than two years after the Townsite celebrated its Centennial we are facing the closure of our fine beautiful landmark.

We have a gem of an establishment here, so let the curtain fade on the latest movie--but not on the Patricia Theatre.

Sharlene Reid enjoys both the historical aspect and ambience of the Patricia Theatre.