They’re not trying to re-open as a movie theater, a live performance venue is a different animal altogether.

file photo by Boyd Loving

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

RIDGEWOOD, N.J. — Is turning Ridgewood’s iconic Warner Theater into a state-of-the-art regional performing arts center a vision for the community’s future, or an astronomical taxpayer-funded vanity project?

Local officials are preparing to apply for a massive $75 million state grant to revitalize the closed landmark, but local residents are voicing serious outrage online.

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The $75 Million Vision: What’s Planned for the Warner Theater?

According to Village Manager Keith Kazmark, the Ridgewood Arts Foundation is finalizing an application for $75 million through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).

The goal is to acquire the historic property—currently owned by Bow Tie Cinemas—and convert the multi-screen multiplex back into a single, high-capacity live performance destination.

Ridgewood Mayor Paul Vagianos confirmed the Village intends to purchase the property if funding comes through, with application submissions expected when the NJEDA grant window opens in September or later.

“We are applying to help transform the historic Warner Theater into a premier performing arts center,” Kazmark stated. “Stay tuned as this exciting project moves forward.”

Proponents point to successful historic theater revivals across New Jersey—such as Jersey City’s 1929 Loew’s Theatre—as proof that state grant money can breathe new life into downtown cultural hubs.

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“Are They Building It Out of Gold Bars?” Community Outrage Erupts

While nostalgia runs deep for the cinema—where generations of Bergen County residents grew up watching movies—the massive $75,000,000 price tag has sparked severe public skepticism.

Social media comment sections quickly blew up as residents questioned both the necessity and the sheer scale of the budget:

• Taxpayer & Inflation Concerns: “75m? Are they building it out of gold bars?” wrote one commenter. Another added, “I guess the residents will suffer another tax hike.”

• Scale & Cost Comparison: “You can open 3 AMC theaters for $75M,” noted one user. Another joked, “I bet the ‘George to the Rescue’ guy could do it for a lot less.”

• Public vs. Private Funding: Many questioned why public state money should go toward acquiring and renovating commercial real estate: “Do not fund that. Taxpayer money should never fund a private enterprise.”

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Why Does Converting a Movie Multiplex Cost $75 Million?

While the $75 million sticker shock has raised eyebrows, industry experts point out that converting a modern multi-plex back into a functional live performance space requires massive structural overhaul rather than simple cosmetic touch-ups.

To handle major live theater and musical productions, a full conversion typically involves:

• Structural Demolition: Removing internal multiplex divider walls and multi-level floor slabs.

• Stage & Rigging Infrastructure: Building out fly lofts, backstage dressing rooms, acoustic treatment, and professional stage lighting.

• Code & Accessibility Upgrades: Complete overhaul of HVAC systems to meet energy codes, alongside modern ADA accessibility compliance for seating and restrooms.

• Roofing & Envelope Repairs: Restoring historic exteriors, structural reinforcement, and roof replacements.

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What’s Next for Ridgewood’s Landmark?

The proposal remains contingent on the NJEDA grant window opening this fall. As the Village prepares its formal application, local debate will likely intensify over whether the Warner Theater should become North Jersey’s next cultural destination or if village and state priorities lie elsewhere.

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