Minneapolis (WCCO) The Historic Capri Theater in North Minneapolis has opened to the public once again. It closed two years ago to proceed with the expansion and improvement of the facility.
Built in 1927, the Capri Hotel is the last of the 13 theaters that once graced the north side of Minneapolis. The performing arts space was eventually purchased by the Plymouth Christian Youth Center.
The newly renovated 35,000-foot building includes the latest technology in the Best Buy Teen Tech Center and Student Lounge.
Broadway’s new rehearsal room is designed with great ambiance and natural light. The floor is about the size of the Capri Theater and has a full spring dance floor.
The Capri Theater now features new seating, lighting and sound. The architects have preserved the original stage floor where Prince performed his first concert as a solo artist in 1979. The theater seats 256.
(credit: CBS)
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Paradise Community Auditorium and Ballroom is a multi-use black box space. The space can be used for a fashion show, party, theater production, community meeting and more.
11-year-old Ayla Porter uses the Capri and said the grand opening comes at a much needed time.
“It’s very modern and amazing,” Porter said. “It’s a way to connect with friends and family and a way to express yourself if you just can’t talk.”
The $12.5 million renovation will meet the growing need for the performing arts in the community, said Christopher Campbell, executive director of the Plymouth Christian Center for Youth.
“Allowing people from northern Minneapolis to come here and tell the truth and show their talents. If they need a space to do that, we give them space,” Campbell said.
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Due to COVID-19, masks are required indoors. All guests will need proof of complete COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result within 72 hours prior to attending the event.
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