The State Theatre

The Art Deco State Theatre was built in 1934 by S. Charles Lee and is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. After decades as a film house, the State was converted into a community arts center and concert hall. It was remodeled during the 1990s. In June 2005, the new non-profit State Theatre of Modesto, Inc. was created and, for the first time since its opening, the State Theatre has been transformed by a fully comprehensive film going palace.

Special features of the State Theatre’s artful renovation project include restoration of the decorative signature gold leaf murals of greyhounds and gazelles, completely refurbished seating and stage area, fully updated and comfortably appointed backstage guest artist studios, dramatically renovated art deco lobby highlighting a newly designed lounge and sweeping coved ceilings, carved granite front walk and dramatic exterior featuring black granite, blue and gold mosaic tile and stainless steel, replacement of the vertical and renovation of the horizontal marquee complete with retro neon lights and dynamic LED reader board, and installation of a state-of-the-art Meyer Sound System for both film and live performances.