Senate Resolution No. 221

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 90th Anniversary of The Stanley
Theatre in Utica, New York

WHEREAS, Theatrical institutions, and the many social and
educational benefits they confer, play a vital role in the development
of their neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those artistic landmarks which have brought outstanding
entertainment and cultural enrichment to the citizens of the great State
of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 90th Anniversary of The Stanley Theatre in Utica, New
York; and

WHEREAS, Originally built to be a movie palace, The Stanley Theatre
opened on September 10, 1928, with the silent movie "Ramona" starring
Dolores del Rio; and

WHEREAS, Constructed in just 13 months with 2,963 seats, The Stanley
Theatre was designed and dubbed of Mexican-Baroque style by famous
architect Thomas Lamb, who is considered one of the foremost designers
of theatres and cinemas in the 20th century; and

WHEREAS, The Stanley Theatre survived the urban renewal effort in
the 1960s and 1970s when all other theatres in Utica's Theatre District
were being razed; the theatre remained operational, but by 1974 it
became apparent the building suffered from neglect; and

WHEREAS, When the threat of destruction became very real, The
Central New York Community Arts Council, a local nonprofit organization,
acquired the property and saved The Stanley Theatre; and

WHEREAS, Since its purchase, the Council has upgraded all
mechanical, electrical and safety systems, and continues to make
technical improvements to accommodate the many touring shows which
perform at this renowned institution; and

WHEREAS, In 2007, The Stanley Theatre closed its doors and underwent
a $20 million expansion project, including the construction of a much
larger stage to accommodate large Broadway-style touring productions, as
well as a new two-story addition with a state-of-the-art loading dock,
modern dressing rooms, and a digital marquee; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, one of the more spectacular changes from the
renovation was the addition of a new chandelier; created and donated by
Meyda Lighting, a local manufacturer, this breathtaking light fixture is
the world's largest LED free-hanging chandelier; and

WHEREAS, A vibrant arts community encourages collaboration, instills
local pride, draws people together, and is essential to a community's

vitality; over the past 90 years, The Stanley Theatre has greatly
contributed to the richness of New York's cultural palette; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when artistic
societies of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 90th Anniversary of The Stanley Theatre in Utica, New
York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Stanley Theatre, Utica, New York.