San Lorenzo Theater in Alameda County to reopen with $17.8M renovation

The historic San Lorenzo Theater, located in Alameda County near San Francisco, is preparing for a grand reopening in January 2027 following a $17.8 million exterior renovation, mercurynews.com reported.

The theater, an Art Moderne-style building originally constructed in 1947, underwent a two-year restoration after two fires in 2020 caused significant damage requiring emergency debris removal, building stabilization, and seismic upgrades.

The renovation included installation of new LED neon lights on the marquee and tower, preserving the theater's distinctive facade designed by San Francisco architect Alexander A. Cantin and his son.

The San Lorenzo Theater has a 700-person capacity and has been owned by Alameda County since 2010 for use as a public arts and entertainment venue. The restoration aims to rejuvenate the downtown area and support community building and economic growth, according to the Alameda County Community Development Agency.

The theater received the Art Deco Preservation Award in 1986, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance. The grand reopening is scheduled for January 23, 2027, with celebrations already underway for the lighting of the marquee and tower.