El Campanil Theatre board president says shows to run through Nov. 30th
Following receipt of 60-day rental termination notice
By Sharon Sobel Idul, Board President, El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation
The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation (ECTPF) has been served with a 60-day notice from the attorney representing the new owners terminating our tenancy. These owners made no attempt to discuss the Foundation’s continued operations at the theatre with ECTPF before the notice was served. (See related article)
We know this news will be difficult for the many people who love the theatre. We want our audiences, artists, and neighbors to hear this clearly: all shows currently on the calendar through November 30 will take place. We look forward to seeing you all soon.
We are also working with Black Diamond Ballet to see whether its beloved production of Nutcracker can be moved to an earlier date at El Campani Theatre. We know how much this holiday tradition means to our community and we will share an update as soon as plans are confirmed.
For years, you have filled the seats, made donations, volunteered your time, brought friends to performances, and spoken up for this theatre. Your support has meant more to us than we can say. We are grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply.
We hope you’ll join us for the shows ahead. Bring someone who has never been to El Campanil Theatre. Share an event you’re excited about. Most of all, come enjoy the music, dance, and stories that this stage was made for.
Find upcoming shows, tickets at www.ElCampanilTheatre.com. We will share further updates as they become available.
State law requires a 60-day notice to terminate tenancy for commercial buildings.
As previously reported, on August 20th, Sobel Idul issued a statement that included, “The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation (ECTPF)…is a tenant of the theatre property, which is owned by an out-of-state landlord. We are aware of the potential sale of the property and of fundraising efforts being circulated online by a potential buyer. Those efforts are independent of ECTPF and do not reflect the mission of our organization and it is unlikely that we would be able to continue to provide theatre programming at El Campanil Theatre if they acquire the space.
She further wrote, “We hope the city, our community, and artists alike can come together to help maintain our mission, if not we will no longer be able to continue our arts management in this space.”
“For now, our focus remains on operating the theatre, welcoming audiences and community organizations, supporting the artists and renters who bring this stage to life, and continuing to be a gathering place for Antioch and the surrounding region,” Sobel Idul concluded in her Aug. 20th statement.
About the El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation
The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation is the nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining and operating El Campanil Theatre, a historic performing arts venue in downtown Antioch, California. Originally opened in 1928, the theatre is a cherished cultural landmark presenting live performances, films, and educational programs for audiences of all ages. The Foundation relies on community donations to preserve this beloved institution and keep the arts thriving in East Contra Costa County.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
See related articles:
Antioch Council hears earful from public upset with El Campanil Theatre sale | Antioch Herald
Former El Campanil Theatre leader asks church to reconsider purchase | Antioch Herald
Owner explains reasons for selling Antioch’s historic El Campanil Theatre | Antioch Herald Includes information regarding Community meeting gets heated after pastor, congregants invited in; false accusations made of carrying guns; claim of a police report filed
Historic El Campanil Theatre building sold to church led by Antioch resident | Antioch Herald
El Campanil Theatre to hold community meeting on building’s future Tuesday | Antioch Herald
the attachments to this post:
El Campanil icon, photo, Sharon Sobel Idul & 60-Day Notice 09-30-26
