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Red velvet, gold trim
By Karen Jesse Martin
from Salem Monthly, Section Stage
Posted on Sat Mar 31, 2007 at 08:50:58 PM PDT

The Elsinore Theatre is fulfilling its destiny. This magnificent historical landmark proudly promotes the performing arts in a theater of 1,200 red velvet seats. Last year 62,000 guests enjoyed 140 events, half of which were live performances.

Elsinore Theater offers three series on a regular basis: Student Series, Family Series, and Film Series. Programs for the student and family series are selected from hundreds offered by national and regional booking agencies. Some are proposed by individuals and groups. The film series includes many silent features accompanied by the famous Mighty Wurlitzer organ.
Several organizations have made the Elsinore their "home," and perform there on a regular basis. Salem Concert Band and Salem Pops Orchestra are among these.

"We're a nonprofit organization, but we have to generate enough money to
cover expenses," said Martin. "We do this through ticket sales, rentals, concessions, memberships, and corporate sponsorships."

Coming up this month is the 2nd annual Salem Film Festival, a project of Salem Cinema, Historic Elsinore Theatre, and Allied Video Products in partnership with Chemeketa College, Willamette University, and sponsors. The festival will present three days of back-to-back independent films,
along with panel discussions and receptions with the filmmakers.

Some of the 26 films will be debuting at the festival; some have already won awards. There will be documentaries, animations, shorts, and feature films.

"Years ago Elsinore had a smaller version of a film festival, but it was
discontinued. Then last year our board of directors got enthusiastic about a largescale film event," said Stephen Martin, executive director. "It was an outstanding success, so we're anticipating another great
festival."

Also this month a group of attractive young women will compete on Elsinore's stage for the title of Miss Marion/Polk County, the first rung on the ladder to Miss America. This event is one of dozens sponsored by private organizations that rent space and services at the Elsinore. This event is open to the public.

Many sponsored events are open to the public; some are not. An example of
a restricted program is the Oregon High School Thespian Festival, which is open only to participants and their families.

"Even if we can't sell tickets to the event, as hosts we fuel economic activity because we draw people to Salem restaurants, shops, and lodging," Martin said.

Elsinore's calendar of events:
Visit the Elsinore's Website. Call: (503) 375-0284







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