work continues Robbins Village Theater

The Robbins Village Theater was purchased in 2010 by the Small Town Mainstreet Program. Work began immediately by the non-profit and a group of volunteers to turn the old theater into a Cultural Arts Center.

The building was built in 1946 and was used as a theater until 1971 when it was then turned into retail space. Next door, there was a barbershop which the group purchased in 2012 to use for bathroom space, conference room and an upstairs multipurpose room.

The committee meets the first Thursday of each month at the Robbins Library. A contractor from Winston N.C. and a group of volunteers meet monthly at the theater to work on the project. The next work day is scheduled for April 4 at 9 a.m.

work continues Robbins Village Theater

According to contractor Steve McSwain, there is a lot left to be done, but they have come a long way. It will take around $250,000 to fully complete the project. Most of the completed work has been done by volunteers. Some work required an engineer, which they paid for.

They have replaced the roof on both buildings, rebuilt the stage, put in new windows and awnings, restored the brick walls, and more. The next big projects are to get a permit to raise the floor and for HVAC, plumbing and electrical work.

McSwain said, “This project is special. They need a place to hold events.” The plan is to use the theater for parties, dances, plays, movies, concerts, and anything the community wants to use it for.

work continues Robbins Village Theater Stage

Volunteer and committee member Kevin Stewart said no tax dollars are being used on the project.

McSwain said, “We love volunteers. Just come on out.”

Anyone that wants to volunteer can look for date and times on their Facebook page: Robbins Village Theater. Anyone that would like to make a donation can do so on their website. www.robbinsvillagetheater.com

Sandhills_Sentinel~Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Curtis Self.

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