Why You Need to See the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
The gorgeous F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts is a local fixture in Wilke-Barre. Originally built as a movie theater, this fascinating building is now completely refurbished as a home for the performing arts.
For more information on the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide. It’s packed with everything you need to know about our area and the events, festivals, restaurants, destinations, and more.
The F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
Beloved by locals and visitors alike, the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts represents America’s past, as well as present. You must visit this unique and unforgettable venue. Here are a few reasons you need to add the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts to your list.
Incredible History
The rich history makes the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts so special. And, like all histories, it has experienced rough patches. Its history began in 1938 as a Comerford Movie Theater grand movie house. The owner spared no expense in its art deco design, with lavish and spectacular results.
In the 1970s, a hurricane destroyed the area, and the theater went out of business. In an effort to use the building for other purposes, the owners gutted it. But soon, the city slated the dilapidated building for demolition.
The community came together to save the building from complete ruin, and succeeded in putting it on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. However, salvation didn’t come to the old movie theater until 1985. A new owner took charge. And generous donations from Fred M. Kirby and everyone in the community, raised more than three million to restore the building to its former glory in 1986.
Beautiful Art Deco
For the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts’ twentieth celebration in 2006, the board of directors launched another refurbishing project. Now, when you visit, you’ll be awed by the incredible art deco style throughout. From the style of the carpet and the red velvet chairs to the hand-painted gold wallpaper and ceilings, everything will take you back to the glamour of the 1930s.
Wide Variety of Shows
Upcoming performances include the NEPA Philharmonic, Octonauts Live! (a kids’ show), and Melissa Etheridge. If you’re vising during the holidays, consider buying tickets for a special holiday performance. Be sure to check their schedule of events to see what’s playing during your visit. And click here for Kirby Center box office hours.
Book Your Stay at the French Manor Inn
After your visit to the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, we invite you home to our luxurious French Manor Inn and Spa. Secluded from the bright lights and loud noise of the cities, our elegant stone chateau offers gorgeous views of the Northern Pocono Mountains. Spacious and well-appointed rooms await you with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies.
Other onsite amenities include Le Spa Foret services, indoor salt water pool and more. We serve a full, gourmet breakfast each morning, and AAA consistently ranks our on-site restaurant as a 4-star restaurant. When planning your visit to Pennsylvania, don’t forget to download our complimentary Vacation Guide. We look forward to making sure your vacation is everything you dreamed.