By next Monday, Jeremy Clubb will step into the former Cinebarre building on downtown Salem’s Main Street and see a longtime dream take shape in brick and mortar. Clubb, a native of Salem, has wanted to start a theater company since third grade. He now leads a nonprofit organization that will transform the vacant cinema into a community theater offering live productions, workshops, and youth programs.
From childhood ambition to local arts hub
Club b’s vision began in elementary school, when he organized small skits for classmates and fell in love with the power of live storytelling. After years of volunteering with regional theater groups and studying performing arts at Oregon State University, he returned to Salem with a plan: repurpose the empty Cinebarre space into a venue that serves families, schools, and local artists.
The nonprofit, named Salem Community Players, secured a lease on the 4,500‑square‑foot building earlier this year. Renovations are already underway, including installing a pro‑scenic stage, updated lighting, and accessible seating. Clubb says the theater will host a mix of classic plays, contemporary works, and seasonal family shows, all priced affordably to ensure broad participation.
Supporting families and faith‑based values
Club b emphasizes that the theater will be a family‑friendly environment that respects traditional values. “We want a space where parents can bring their children to experience the arts without worrying about inappropriate content,” he explained. The programming schedule will include a “Family Night” series featuring wholesome productions and a “Youth Workshop” series that teaches acting, stagecraft, and public speaking.
Local churches have already expressed interest in partnering for special events, such as holiday pageants and faith‑based concerts. By providing a venue for these gatherings, the theater aims to strengthen community bonds and offer an alternative to secular entertainment options.
Economic and cultural impact
The project is expected to generate modest economic benefits for downtown Salem. Construction crews and local contractors are already on site, and the theater will create part‑time jobs for stagehands, box office staff, and educators. Once open, the venue will draw patrons from surrounding neighborhoods, boosting nearby restaurants and retailers.
City officials have voiced support for the initiative, noting that revitalizing vacant commercial spaces aligns with Salem’s broader downtown renewal goals. The Salem Downtown Association plans to feature the theater in its upcoming promotional campaigns, highlighting it as a cultural anchor for the area.
Opening plans and community involvement
The grand opening is slated for early September, with a ribbon‑cutting ceremony that will include local dignitaries, school representatives, and members of the faith community. Club b invites residents to volunteer, donate, or simply attend the inaugural performance, which will be a family‑friendly adaptation of “A Christmas Carol.”
For more information on tickets, volunteer opportunities, or to support the theater’s fundraising campaign, visit the Salem Community Players website or follow their social‑media channels.
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
