RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The historic Byrd Theatre in Richmond’s Carytown’s neighborhood is looking for help from Richmonders to replace its aging seats.
Currently, there are trash bags and caution tape on some of the seats in the Byrd’s balcony and side sections. Ben Cronly, Executive Director of the Byrd Theater Foundation, said that the group was able to replace the center section’s seats in 2017, but the seats in the balcony and side sections are showing signs of wear due to their age.
“The overall project will cost about $660,000 and we’ve raised about 60% of that,” said Cronly. “We still need that last push.”
Cronly said construction on the balcony seats is set to start in January and the end goal is bigger seats with more leg room throughout the theater, as well as two additional wheelchair-accessible platforms in the back.
“It’s very important to preserve this piece of history,” Cronly said.
The work on the balcony is expected to be completed in early 2025. You can find more information on how to support or donate to the foundation here .