Our Mission
Guided by the belief that art transforms communities, Save the El Rey is committed to preserving and revitalizing Chico’s historic El Rey Theater as an inclusive performing arts space where all voices are celebrated, ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
Save the El Rey Kick-Off Fundraising Campaign
Our Goal: $1 million!
Fundraising Initiatives:
Non-profit purchase of the El Rey theater
Fix the roof
Operational expenses for one year
Join us! Become an El Rey community member today.
Encore Supporter: $50
Encore supporters will receive a beautifully designed postcard from the theater, and your name listed on the theater’s website as a supporter of the arts and heritage.
El Rey Enthusiast: $250
El Rey Enthusiasts receive all the benefits of the Encore Supporter, plus an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the theater.
Spotlight Patron: $500
Spotlight Patrons will receive all benefits of the El Rey Enthusiasts and a personalized plaque on a selected seat in the theater, marking your contribution to its legacy.
Founders Circle: $10,000
Founders Circle members will receive all the benefits of the Spotlight Patrons, plus a personalized plaque prominently displayed within the theater, celebrating your commitment to its future.
Visionary Founder: $100,000
As a Visionary Founder you will receive all the benefits of the Founders Circle, and exclusive naming rights to a significant theater space (such as the stage, auditorium, or lobby), ensuring your legacy is intertwined with the theater’s history.
Who We Are
A team of community members determined to bring the El Rey back to life.
Mahina Gannet
Mahina Gannet is a small business owner in downtown Chico and freelance project manager in the music and hospitality industries. With a background rooted in music festivals, international touring, and restaurants, Mahina brings a diverse yet individualized approach to any project.
Aubrey Pope
Chico local musician and artist, Aubrey (Debauchery) Pope is dedicated to bringing music, theater, and the whimsical magic back to the El Rey Theater. With over 20 years of touring as a musician and over a decade of managing bands and working on the road in countless venues across the nation, Aubrey understands the needs of the artist, the venue, and the community.
Dustin Vaught
Dustin Vaught is a dedicated film producer and actor with over 20 years of experience in the film industry, both in front of and behind the camera. Known for his work on numerous independent films, Dustin is passionately committed to transforming Chico and Butte County into a thriving hub for filmmaking and filmmakers.
Anna Alexander
Anna is a history professor at Cal State East Bay, specializes in public and environmental history and has a deep commitment to preserving historic buildings that define our communities. As a native of Chico and a Chico State alum, Anna is dedicated to ensuring historic landmarks continue to be cherished spaces for creating new memories and connections.
Our Partners
We couldn’t do it without you.
Get Involved
We are community powered. Please sign up to help volunteer.
History of the El Rey
A Pillar of Chico’s History.
The Majestic Theater opened.
Renamed to "The National."
Renamed to "The American."
Fire destroyed the interior.
Rebuilding began, and artists started working on fairy murals.
Reopened as "El Rey."
Crowds lined up for "Jaws."
Jane Fonda visited to promote "On Golden Pond."
United Artists sold the theater, ending its first-run film legacy.
New owners proposed converting the theater into retail spaces, office suites, apartments, and underground parking.
Became a specialty theater and performance space.
Theater was put up for sale; the "El Rey Theater Alliance" formed to protect it.
El Rey is for sale again; its future is unclear.
FAQs
Just a bit more info about the El Rey.
What is Save the El Rey?
Save the El Rey is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and revitalizing the historic El Rey Theater. Our mission is to maintain the theater’s architectural integrity and cultural significance, ensuring it remains a vibrant venue for arts, entertainment, and education.
Why is the El Rey Theater significant?
The El Rey Theater is a cultural and architectural treasure with a rich history. It is known for its unique features, including cherished fairy murals, and serves as a community landmark. Preserving this theater helps maintain our shared heritage and promotes a deep appreciation for the arts.
What are the current restoration projects?
Our current restoration projects include:
- Roof replacement
- HVAC installation
- Development of additional backstage and creative spaces
- Restoration of the theater’s unique features, such as the fairy murals
How can I contribute to the restoration efforts?
You can contribute to the restoration efforts by donating to the “Save the El Rey” fund. Your generous donations will directly support the comprehensive restoration of the El Rey Theater, ensuring its future as a dynamic hub for arts, entertainment, and education.
What impact will my donation have?
Your donation will help restore the theater’s unique features, create versatile community spaces, and support essential projects like roof replacement and HVAC installation. By contributing, you will be making a lasting impact on our community and helping to preserve an important cultural landmark.
Are there other ways to support Save the El Rey?
Yes, there are several ways to support our mission:
- Volunteer your time and skills for various restoration and community engagement projects
- Attend our fundraising events and activities
- Spread the word about our mission and encourage others to get involved
How can I stay updated on the progress of the restoration?
You can stay updated on our progress by following us on social media, contacting us, and regularly visiting our website. We will provide updates on restoration milestones, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information, please contact us at savetheelrey@gmail.com or visit our website at www.savetheelrey.com. We are happy to answer any questions and provide more details about our mission and projects.
