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Moreland Theater Marquee Restoration Fun
Celebrating 100 Years of Community & Cinema
For nearly a century, the Moreland Theater has been a proud landmark at the heart of Sellwood. Built in 1925, it is one of the last remaining single-screen theaters in the Portland area—and one of the few still independently owned and operated since 1973. Generations of families have gathered here to laugh, cry, and celebrate the magic of film together.
As we approach our 100-year milestone, we want to ensure the Moreland continues to shine for the next century. Over the years, we’ve made important upgrades—like converting from film to digital and installing new seats to keep your experience comfortable and modern. Now, it’s time to restore the face of the building and bring new life to our community treasure.
Our Vision
The centerpiece of this project is the restoration of our iconic Moreland Theater marquee—the most recognizable feature of our building. We want it to shine bright once again as a symbol of pride for our community. Along with the marquee, we have additional goals:
- Fresh paint inside and out (including the auditorium’s soaring ceiling)
- Updated electrical systems for safety and efficiency
- A new main-floor bathroom for accessibility
- Improvements to the stage and screen, allowing us to host live performances like music, comedy, and plays
- A refreshed snack bar to serve our guests better
Why We Need Your Help
The past few years have been especially challenging for independent theaters. The COVID-19 shutdowns, the rise of streaming, and industry-wide strikes all deeply impacted attendance. While blockbuster films like Top Gun: Maverick, Barbie, and Wicked give us hope, the road to recovery has been long and difficult.
Yet, through it all, the Moreland has endured—thanks to the loyalty and love of our community. With your support, we can preserve this historic gem and prepare it for a vibrant future.
Be Part of the Legacy
Your donation—whether big or small—makes a direct impact on preserving a landmark that has brought joy to our neighborhood for 100 years. Together, we can restore the marquee, refresh the theater, and ensure that the Moreland continues to be a place where memories are made for generations to come.
✨ Join us in keeping the Moreland Theater shining bright for the next century.
Organizer
LeAnn Nakvasil
Organizer
Portland, OR