Raymond Theatre to put Roaring ‘20s fun in fundraiser

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 15, with hors d’oeuvres served at 6 p.m. Local acts will keep the audience entertained, with master of ceremonies Mike Williams trying desperately to avoid using the hook.

October 3, 2016 11:00 pm

Event set for Saturday, Oct. 15

RAYMOND — The antics of Harold Lloyd, the silent movie-era master of living on the edge, come to Raymond on Saturday, Oct. 15, with the showing of “Why Worry?” accompanied on the piano by Dave Milne.

The screening caps off a night of 1920s-themed entertainment as part of a fundraiser for the historic Raymond Theatre.

Enjoy cabaret-style acts by local performers, including Lew Chapman on the trumpet, singers and the Gayle Russell Dancers. Beer and wine will be served.

Locals are encouraged to dress the part for the evening — flappers welcome. Get your mugshot in your knee-duster and fedora at the picture booth.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres served at 6 p.m. Local acts will keep the audience entertained, with master of ceremonies Mike Williams trying desperately to avoid using the hook.

Don’t be alarmed if unsavory gangster-looking characters carrying violin cases wander the theater. They’re just there to politely sell raffle tickets. The admission ticket also doubles as a raffle ticket, so hold on to the stub. Buy additional tickets to increase your odds of winning.

Prizes include a week’s accommodations in Hawaii, two weekend stays at the Blackbird Inn in Leavenworth and tickets for Sunday Afternoon Live’s November show — Cash’d Out, a Johnny Cash tribute band.

The 1928 building needs numerous leaky roof repairs and a new heating system. In 2016 dollars, that’s estimated to be $50,000. Theater manager Anne Steele hopes residents throughout Pacific County will recognize the value of the building and join the fun on Oct. 15.

“This is a lovely theater with a storied past,” she said. “It’s a cultural center for live acts and popular movies. But we need your help to ensure it continues to be available for generations to come.”

Sunday Afternoon Live hosts 10 or more performances each year at the theater, bringing in acts that include tenor Terry Barber, folk singer Andy Hackbarth and performers for children.

In addition, the theater shows current movies, classics and is available for rental. Parties, meetings and community events are welcome, Steele said.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $6 for students and children under 18. Tickets are available in advance at South Bend Pharmacy, 101 Willapa Ave., and Sagen’s Pharmacy, 515 Commercial St. in Raymond.

The theater is located at 323 Third St. in Raymond.

Call (360) 942-4127 for more information.