Kerry MacQueen, chair of the Loudonville Theatre Restoration Committee, has selected as the theme of her committee's work as "making memories come alive."

"We selected this theme because it reflects the past, present and future, and how the theatre applies to each," MacQueen.

"It allies to the past as people who have used the theatre for various purposes reminisce of it," MacQueen said. "To the present for the dire condition of the theatre; and to the future for the goal of restoration so the facility can be used to its potential."

MacQueen stressed "the theatre has tremendous potential as a vehicle for expression and outlet of the arts in a local, public owned facility.

"We want to get the entire community involved in fund raising efforts to make the theatre a viable part of the community," she continued. "We have already involved members of the high school art club with developing designs and logos to be used to promote the theatre. Students Jesse Wolff, Kim Rastetter and Kendra Roberts prepared designs which we will use in our production of tickets, brochures, and other publications. I am very pleased that high school students have become involved in this effort--after all, they are our future."

Kerry said a very committed committee has been formed to pursue the theatre restoration.

"I see our committee's goal as to take the steps necessary to make the theater a suitable setting for public performances, including both movies and live plays, and other performances," she said. "The theatre is a beautiful facility filled with history. I would hate to lose such a thing."

Serving with Kerry on the committee are Judy Webster, the village recreation director, who serves as a liaison with village officials and also assists with communication.

• Steve Stricklen, a village councilman who was involved in the theatre restoration efforts in 1990. He will serve as the structural and electrical coordinator.
• Harold Schmidt, Mary Strouse and Gertrude Fisher, who are assembling historical information on the theater, with the hopes of possibly publishing a calendar with historic photographs of performances at the theatre.
• Suzanne and Bernie Ferencak, who are handling publicity, fund raising and website development.
• Sue Gorisek, who is arranging speakers for the fund raising event.
• Larry Kauffman, who servers as liaison to the Loudonville Players and is the entertainment coordinator.
• Todd Vermilya, financial coordinator.
• Karen Hurley, secretary who has an extensive theatre background.
• and Colleen Sandusky, who will help with publicity, promotion and other efforts.

"In addition to raising funds, we want to use the event to get the work out as to what needs to be done to restore the theatre," Kerry said. "In addition to speakers and a special movie, we will provide tours of the building. We are hoping the Loudonville Players can do brief glimpses into some of their past performances, and our speakers will speak on the theme the theatre--past, present and future.

The Loudonville Players, Kerry announced, will give the community a sneak preview of the theatre facility with their performances, May 12-14, of Agatha Christie's Murder Mystery, "Ten Little Indians."