Before I begin my plea, let me offer the reader a quick bypass to the official Rally.org site for donations that will go directly toward the restoration efforts of the historic Lyric Theatre. (Because that’s what this post is all about.)
(*If you would, just be sure to please donate on “LK Whitney”‘s page, as I’m one of 100 local fundraisers each trying to fill a $1000 pot for the cause. Specifically, we’re raising funds to restore the Lyric Lobby, the first bite out of an epic process and one that will produce remarkable results.)
Here’s the deal, plain and simple:
I NEED YOUR MONEY. Pocket change will do, although heftier donations are better (and easier for everyone involved.) As I said earlier, I agreed to raise $1000, so however you help me get there, I’m grateful.
Now, a little more about our muse:
The lovely Lyric Theatre is preparing for her comeback. And, as with any decent debut, she’ll need a fine new dress and one heck of a head-to-toe makeover.
The Lyric, downtown’s historic theatre located across the street from The Alabama Theatre, was built for Vaudeville acts in 1914. Oh, just a few well-known performers graced that stage: Marx Brothers, Mae West, Sophie Tucker, Will Rogers, and Milton Berle…
It was a popular destination on Birmingham’s entertainment scene, and at its heyday shows cost anywhere from 25 to 75 cents. Best part about the Lyric? Although segregated, it was the first theatre in the South to allow both whites and blacks to watch the same show, at the same time, for the same price.
I’ll refer you to the official Save The Lyric website for even more history, more photos, and every bit of information you might want on how, exactly, the powers-that-be plan to restore this Magic City treasure.
Haven’t been inside? Let me take you there (via filmmaker Justin Gaar):
As a mother, I’m always saying, “It takes a village.” Well, in this case, the same adage applies. It’ll take our whole community and beyond to restore Birmingham’s “magic”. This is a great way to get involved. You’ll be able to watch the process as the Lyric once again becomes one of the city’s prized destinations.
Save the Lyric. Donate here. Learn more here. Spread the word. And, I’ll see you at the show…
