Biddeford City Theater
Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.
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"Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?><?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Its mission is to foster an" name="description"/> <meta content="Biddeford, City, Theater, ME" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/biddeford-me/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Biddeford</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Biddeford</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-lewistonauburn-coffee-talk-january-30-2025-ycnct3yvrg4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-MAINE-LEWISTONAUBURN-COFFEE-TALK-JANUARY">AARP Maine Lewiston/Auburn Coffee Talk January</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Jan 30, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Auburn Senior Community Center</p> <p class="loc">Auburn, ME</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-BIDDEFORD-ME">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Its mission is to foster an" name="description"/> <meta content="Biddeford, City, Theater, ME" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Its mission is to foster an" name="description"/> <meta content="Biddeford, City, Theater, ME" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/biddeford-me/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Biddeford</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Biddeford</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-lewistonauburn-coffee-talk-january-30-2025-ycnct3yvrg4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-MAINE-LEWISTONAUBURN-COFFEE-TALK-JANUARY">AARP Maine Lewiston/Auburn Coffee Talk January</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Jan 30, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Auburn Senior Community Center</p> <p class="loc">Auburn, ME</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-BIDDEFORD-ME">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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"Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Its mission is to foster an" name="description"/> <meta content="Biddeford, City, Theater, ME" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Its mission is to foster an" name="description"/> <meta content="Biddeford, City, Theater, ME" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Biddeford City Theater</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>205 Main Street</div> <div> <span>Biddeford</span>, <span>ME</span> <span>04005</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.citytheater.org/" target="_blank">Biddeford City Theater</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 207-282-0849</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Biddeford+City+Theater%2C+205+Main+Street%2C+Biddeford%2C+ME+04005" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement.City Theater History: The City of Biddeford purchased land in the late 1840’s at the corner of Adams and Main Streets, and at that site planned the first building exclusively for the city government. It was to house all municipal offices, as well as the original opera house. The opera house opened in October 1860 with a play depicting slavery in the Southern states - appropriate on the eve of the Civil War. An era of theatrical history began for the city of Biddeford. Edwin Booth, Joseph Jefferson, and Pat Rooney appeared over the years before appreciative audiences.On December 30, 1894, a raging fire destroyed the entire city building. An emergency city council meeting was called for on Jan. 2, 1895. From that initial session until the final architectural designs were completed, the question of whether or not to rebuild the opera house was hotly debated. Finally, the dispute over building a performance arts center was settled in favor of the arts, and the planning of a larger and more structurally sound facility was initiated. Maine architect, John Calvin Stevens, designed a richly ornamented opera house in the colonial revival style, complete with horseshoe balcony. A large brass chandelier with glass shades showcased the stenciled ceilings. The rebuilt opera house reopened January 20th, 1896 and quickly resumed its role as a cultural focal point in York County. A favorite among audiences was vaudeville, with Biddeford as an important stop on its circuit. Dramatic performances by stage immortals like the Barrymores, along with minstrel shows, community pageants and plays were popular offerings. Local director and actor J.J. Salvas entertained audiences with his portrayal of various characters. Illustrated songs were also well-liked. One such performance ended tragically and remains a part of City Theater's folklore. On Halloween Eve, 1904 singer Eva Gray collapsed and died after her third encore of the song “Goodbye, Little Girl, Goodbye”. The beautiful 33 year old died backstage from heart failure with her 3 year old daughter present. Many since have referred to Eva as the theater's resident “ghost”. Soon films began to gain popularity, and when talkies were introduced in 1928, live theater was nearly eclipsed. The opera house became a movie house in the 1930's. The grand days of vaudeville were over except for the occasional appearance of an act between films.Renamed City Theater in 1955, interior improvements were started. The lobby and its staircase were paneled, new poster display cases were built along with a projection booth, and a permanent cinemascope screen was put in place. The transition from opera house to Movie Theater was neither easy nor graceful.Television and drive-ins won the battle over movie houses and in 1963 City Theater closed. From 1971-74 it was used as a storage facility for the city. Ironically in 1973 City Theater, as part of Biddeford City Hall, was recognized and listed as a Historical Landmark with the National Trust. That being said, in 1975 a load of sand was dumped in the middle of the venerable old facility, turning the orchestra pit into a horseshoe pit, but not everyone thought the theater should suffer this fate.In 1977 the newly incorporated City Theater Associates began a move to reopen City Theater. Through a lot of hard work and community volunteerism, the theater reopened in 1978 with the internationally acclaimed Norman Luboff Choir. The theater received a face lift, but was still in dire need of upgrades and restoration. The public supported the theater and attendance grew as plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and community events graced the stage. In 1996 the theater celebrated its 100th year anniversary and was awarded a gift of new seats from the city of Biddeford. Soon a combination of funding received from federal, state, municipal, private, and business sources put restoration efforts into full motion. The highlights of this effort include a new marquee along with restored and reproduced stenciling on the theater's lobby walls, house walls, and ceiling. The theater also received modern updates to its lighting and sound system, a digital projector and the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system. Old buildings demand constant maintenance and the upgrades continue. Today, efforts are underway to re-point exterior brickwork, along with making necessary upgrades to the fly system (most of the pulleys and pin rail area above the stage are original), stage floor, costume room, and public restrooms.In keeping with our mission to foster an appreciation for the performing arts by using creative avenues to increase community involvement, we have expanded our seasons to include Youth Opera, Community Theater, Dance, an ongoing relationship with UNE and an assortment of concerts and events to pique the interest of all ages.We invite you to experience a show with us; you will be in awe at the Theater's splendor and you will find yourself coming back time and time again.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/biddeford-me/report/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/biddeford-me/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Biddeford</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Biddeford</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-lewistonauburn-coffee-talk-january-30-2025-ycnct3yvrg4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-MAINE-LEWISTONAUBURN-COFFEE-TALK-JANUARY">AARP Maine Lewiston/Auburn Coffee Talk January</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Jan 30, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Auburn Senior Community Center</p> <p class="loc">Auburn, ME</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-BIDDEFORD-ME">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Its mission is to foster an" name="description"/> <meta content="Biddeford, City, Theater, ME" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/biddeford-city-theater-biddeford-me.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Biddeford City Theater"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Mission Statement: City Theater Associates, Inc. is a non-profit organization, housed at City Theater in Biddeford, Maine. Its mission is to foster an"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="43.493599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-70.456398"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/biddeford-me/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Biddeford, ME</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/biddeford-me/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/biddeford-me/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/biddeford-me/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/biddeford-me/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/biddeford-me/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/biddeford-me/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/biddeford-me/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/biddeford-me/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118