Variety Theatre Gets a Make-Over

The Variety Theatre will soon undergo its own costume change, of sorts.

Tom Mueller, co-director of the Variety Theatre, at 34 N. Palm St., said the refurbishing has two goals: to make the place bigger and provide a permanent stage.

“We’re going to gain more space,” he said. “This is a multiuse theater, and the space will allow us to have more room to do things.”

Having a permanent stage was essential for Mueller and his business partner, Gary Best, because it allows them to provide live theater while maintaining space for the other uses, such as dance classes. In the past, the pair had to provide a makeshift stage for live productions. Performers came to the theater knowing they would have to set up the stage--in addition to any props--and take it all down after the show.

When the downtown theater reopens July 3, performers don’t have to worry about such things and can store props on the premises during other events.

The changes also mean the facility will be able to seat 80 to 100, up from 49. Heading up the renovations are the building’s new owners, including Jimmy Mesa, who said combining the theater with a restaurant, as envisioned, would help the area as a whole.

Mesa is negotiating with a restaurant to replace Cafe Voltaire, which will move to Palm Street south of East Main Street in September.