STAGE, the Nonprofit Organization Behind the Oroville State Theatre
The State Theatre Arts Guild (STAGE) was formed in the early 1970’s and was originally called the Oroville Community Center Committee.  It was incorporated in 1979 as a nonprofit 501c3 corporation.  The original charter was to work with the City of Oroville to develop a performing arts center in its downtown district.  When United Artists announced its intent to divest the State Theatre in the mid-1980’s, the City of Oroville committed to purchasing the Theatre.  Committee funds were given to the City to assist in the purchase, the initial remodel and operation of the Theatre.

After the city’s acquisition of the Theatre, STAGE remained a community partner and helped secure grants to restore the exterior façade.
The City of Oroville eventually announced it was unable to continue its support of the Historic Oroville State Theatre and on June 17, 2014, turned over the operation and management of the Theatre entirely to the State Theatre Arts Guild.  STAGE managed the day to day operations of the Theatre with mostly volunteer support for the next eight years.

 
During this period, STAGE secured grant funding through the City of Oroville Supplemental Benefits Fund and Oroville Arts Commission of approximately $1.5m, and matched funds from donors and volunteers hours for another $1.5m to complete significant capital projects. 

 

These projects included:
Blade and marquee
Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ
Mural Restoration
Lobby Upgrade
Roof Replacement
Solar Array Replacement
Technical upgrades (sound, lights and communication)
 

All of our efforts were recognized and on March 17, 2021, the City of Oroville transferred ownership of the Oroville State Theatre to the State Theatre Arts Guild, Inc. to ensure continued operation of the Theater.
 

Sustainability
With the Transfer of Ownership from the City of Oroville, the current primary focus of the organization is shifting to building revenue sustainability.  We will always look for avenues to continue to restore the theatre, but we must first grow programming and rentals to ensure the doors can stay open.  We have invested in upgraded technology, equipment and amenities to expand the use of the theatre.