Elsinore Theatre Will Replace 1,239 Seats Next Summer
The venue is upgrading infrastructure with a $1.5 million project to replace aging theater seating.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Elsinore Theatre has ordered new custom seating from Irwin Seating Company to replace infrastructure installed decades ago. This $1.5 million project is scheduled for completion during a renovation phase occurring in summer 2027.
Why it matters
The theater is addressing long-term maintenance costs and a lack of available replacement parts for current hardware. The project aims to restore the venue's original 1926 aesthetic while improving overall guest comfort.
The theater has ordered 1,239 fixed seats and 20 folding chairs, representing a $1.5 million investment. Individual seat costs are $1,200, with sponsorship tiers ranging from $250 to $2,500.
The players
Elsinore Theatre
A historic performance venue in Salem listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Irwin Seating Company
A manufacturer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, specializing in auditorium and stadium seating.
The details
The replacement program addresses seating units that have become damaged or obsolete over decades of use. The project involves removing existing equipment, some of which dates back to the 1960s, while preserving the historic character of the auditorium. The new seats will feature deep blue cushions, red oak backs, and black aluminum frames.
Timeline
May 28, 1926: The Elsinore Theatre opened.
Fall 2025: Phase One of the renovation was completed.
Summer 2027: Seat replacement is scheduled to occur.
Market Landscape
The project aligns with the venue's status on the National Register of Historic Places, requiring careful adherence to preservation standards. It follows a multi-phase renovation plan that began with Phase One in 2025.
Operators planning large-scale facility upgrades should account for the long lead times associated with custom-manufactured historic replacements. Establish a tiered sponsorship program to offset capital expenditure, similar to the model currently used for this $1.5 million project.
The takeaway
Large-scale restoration projects require early capital planning to avoid operational disruptions during peak usage periods. Evaluate current infrastructure for unavailable legacy parts to determine if a full replacement cycle or a tiered fundraising campaign is necessary for your facility.
What happens next
A fundraising tournament for seat sponsorships is scheduled for Oct. 15, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local historic preservation efforts at Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Statesman Journal.
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Should local theaters prioritize costly historic restorations over cheaper modern seating upgrades?
