GVF’s first major project restored the historic marquee and neon blade sign. They mounted a street festival, “Light Up the Night,” to celebrate the unveiling.
1996 Sept 21 Lights Action News Pilot
Excerpt from article:
Greeted by cheers from hundreds of people who jammed downtown San Pedro, the marquee lights of the historic Warner Grand Theatre flashed to life Friday night at a street party commemorating refurbishment of the art deco movie palace. David Parra of San Pedro said the lights of the restored 1930’s-era theater marquee looked just like he remembered when he was a child and went to the Warner with his grandfather. The throngs of people on the street also were familiar, he said. “This is just like it was back then,” Parra said. “At this time of night, people were still shopping. It’s a nice atmosphere.” In an evening filled with nostalgia, celebration and hopes for the future, San Pedro residents turned out in droves for the “Light Up the Night” party along Sixth Street.
The theater has long been viewed as a cornerstone for future revitalization of San Pedro’s historic shopping district. The beginning of the refurbishment project this past year has renewed hopes it will spark renewal. “You could just feel the enthusiasm when we flicked the switch on,” said harbor district Councilman Rudy Svorinich Jr., who helped throw the switch to light the sign. “The relighting of the Warner Grand has rekindled the spirit in San Pedro that has been dimmed for over two decades.”
