The once-neglected Gross 20th Century Theater in Juneau is undergoing a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into the city's cultural scene. This historic movie theater, built in 1940, has been given a new name, Aurora Grand, and a fresh purpose. The theater's revival is a testament to the power of community engagement and the enduring appeal of the arts.
James McSweeney and his wife, Emelia Sween, are the driving forces behind this project. They purchased the building, which had been abandoned during the pandemic, and saw potential in its rich history. The theater's original owner, the Gross family, had operated it alongside a movie theater in the Mendenhall Valley. Now, McSweeney and Sween aim to restore the theater's grandeur and bring it back to its former glory.
One of the most striking aspects of the renovation is the attention to detail. McSweeney wants to restore the theater's old-school aesthetic, combining Hollywood regency and art deco styles. This includes taking down the drop ceiling to reveal the original chandelier and bringing back the marquee, a feature that would have advertised events and movies in the past. The theater originally had one large stage, but the couple plans to restore both auditoriums, including building a stage in the upper theater and bringing back live performances by Juneau organizations.
The Aurora Grand Theater is more than just a movie theater; it's a community hub. McSweeney and Sween envision it as a space where youth can gather, work the ticket booth, and learn about films. They want to showcase movies made by local filmmakers, documentaries, and student films, fostering a sense of ownership and creativity among the community. This mission aligns with the theater's history, as it once hosted live productions from the 1940s to the '70s.
The theater's transformation has already sparked excitement among local residents. X'adasteen Connor Meyer, a videographer, is helping McSweeney document the process. He grew up in Yakutat, a place without a similar cultural space, and he understands the impact such a venue can have on young people. Meyer believes that the Aurora Grand has the potential to change the trajectory of youth in Southeast Alaska, providing them with opportunities to engage in the arts and discover their creative passions.
McSweeney shares this enthusiasm, emphasizing the theater's role in the fabric of Juneau's community. He has been overwhelmed by the positive response and the memories shared by community members. As the theater prepares to open its doors in late May, McSweeney looks forward to creating more memorable experiences for residents of all ages. The Aurora Grand Theater is not just a revival of a historic building; it's a celebration of the arts and a testament to the power of community engagement.
