The State Theater in Youngstown, the city's oldest building--older than the old Warner Brothers Theater--is currently the focus of much debate. Apparently the Youngstown Business Incubator is set to take the building over, but there has also been rumors of a potential demolition in its future. In the wake of this news, people have begun organizing to save the building. Fundraisers and benefits are being talked about, and a small group of people interested in restoring this historical building has begun to form.

The State Theater opened in 1927. Originally operated as a cinema, in the 1970s it was transformed into a nightclub called the Agora. By the 1980s it was closed, like so many other buildings in the business district of Youngstown. Now, with the city's vision and plans for revitalization on track once again, we're trying to salvage pieces of our heritage to carry into our future.

Potential plans for the State Theater, if salvageable, would be to restore it to its former function as a center for drama, music, literature, and the arts.

If you're interested in donating time, money, supplies or anything at all, please contact YoStateTheater@yahoo.com, or visit the website for the State Theater's supporters. Any help at all would be appreciated.