A brand new nonprofit foundation is being created to support the Newhall Family Theatre for the Performing Arts at Newhall Elementary School, and community members are invited to apply for a seat on the new organization’s founding board of directors.

“This is an exciting time for the theatre, and for the entire community,” said Theatre Manager Thomas Lund. “This new foundation will create the framework to support educational programs, events and fundraising for this revitalized jewel of our community. The foundation’s board members will have a unique opportunity to shape and protect the theatre’s future.”

The Newhall School District is seeking applicants for the new foundation board, and in particular seeks individuals who are experienced with nonprofit organizations, small business, public education and/or the entertainment industry.

Those interested in applying can obtain a candidate questionnaire by contacting Lund via email at tlund@newhall.k12.ca.us. Questionnaires must be completed and turned in by Jan. 26 in order for a candidate to be considered.

The Newhall Family Theatre for the Performing Arts recently underwent an extensive renovation. The historic 529-seat theatre now features vastly improved acoustics and audio-visual capabilities, plus an expanded stage, renovated lobby and a new outdoor patio area.

The art deco-style theatre was built in 1941 to replace the original Newhall Elementary School Auditorium, which had burned down in 1939. It served as the school’s auditorium and a community resource until the 1970s, when it was converted to storage space to satisfy the state’s space usage requirements for schools. It served as a warehouse for approximately 40 years.

After years of effort by community advocates who sought to restore the auditorium to its former glory as a performance and gathering space for elementary school students and the community, the Newhall School District broke ground in March 2016 on the $4.8 million renovation.

The newly transformed auditorium, renamed the Newhall Family Theatre for the Performing Arts, made its debut with a VIP reception in October 2017.