CORONA DEL MAR TODAY

Port Theater to Have Hot Pink “Dazzling Effect”

The Port Theater will open next year with a sparkling plum and hot pink facade, according to an interview the contractor gave to the Orange County Register.

According to the article, the “exterior of the Port Theater will be a glammed-up version of its former self, said Karl Kreutziger of Howard CDM, the Long Beach construction firm handling restoration of the six-decade-old movie house. Vertical steel beams have been affixed to the restored façade, recreating the old look, but will be surrounded by textured metal panels that will add flair and convey a ‘three-dimensional appearance,’ Kreutziger said. At street level, there will be an all-glass entry and outer walls will use perforated panels, mirrors and backlighting to create a dazzling effect marked by colors of plum and hot pink, Kreutziger said.”

The theater, which opened in the 1950s, closed in 1998. The current owner had been working on and off for years on the project, unsure if he wanted fixed seating or moveable chairs, or if he wanted a bar and restaurant or not.

Newport Beach Planning Director David Lepo said last week that city staff met with the owner, who had decided not to add a restaurant or bar. By not requesting such changes to the landmark building’s permits, the theater can be reopened without bringing to code details including parking. Final plans for the building’s interior had not been approved.

The owner did have permission to clean up the theater’s exterior. Recently, some city insiders wondered if the theater would be open in time for the Newport Beach Film Festival in April — and decided it likely would not.

Read our earlier story here.