Historic Hemet Theatre

The Historic Hemet Theatre Project will have three key impacts in the community:

HISTORICAL PRESERVATION

Built in 1921 by William Martin, HHT is one of the oldest movie theatres in the country. 

Much more than just an old building, the Historic Hemet Theatre has been a centerpiece of the community for generations. The stories from residents are endless... Saturday morning serial films during the depression, a first kiss in the loge seating... a first job working for "old man Martin"...  In the age before television, movies brought the world to the rural San Jacinto Valley. Through the decades, the theater served as both entertainment and a gathering place for valley residents.

The HHT Project will ensure that the theater will survive to entertain, educate, and build memories for generations of residents to come.

CULTURAL ENRICHMENT

Arts and culture are the lifeblood of every thriving community. With 410 seats, the HHT offers the largest auditorium in Southeast Riverside County. The stage layout provides room for a wide variety of events, including films, concerts, recitals, seminars, and much more. The Foundation has formed partnership with many local organizations, bringing a rich assortment of programming to the community.

Operating under a 5-year lease/purchase agreement, the Foundation has already hosted dozens of films and concerts. Once the purchase is complete, renovation plans include provisions that will expand even further the types of events that can be presented.

ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION

Once a thriving retirement destination, the valley has been hard hit by changing demographics and the economic crisis of 2008. In the past, Hemet's Florida Avenue boasted the distinction of having more money on deposit in one linear mile than anywhere in the country. Now the valley bears designation as a severely distressed community. We watched helplessly as the epidemic of foreclosures destroyed families and ruined neighborhoods.

Finally, the local economy has begun a comeback. New businesses are opening and construction is increasing. Hopeful signs are appearing across the valley.

Located in the heart of the Hemet downtown district, the Historic Hemet Theatre is the most prominent business and the most critical to the economic revitalization of the downtown area. As the success of the theatre grows, residents are returning to the downtown area, regaining a sense of safety in which businesses thrive.

Now, word is spreading throughout the region that a dynamic performing arts center has taken root in downtown Hemet. We need your help to continue our work.

Your donation to the Historic Hemet Theatre will provide the down payment needed to purchase the theatre on behalf of the community. Together we can preserve a unique piece of heritage, provide a rich assortment of arts and entertainment for our families, and help bolster the economic recovery of the valley.

Please join us.