Richey Suncoast Theatre facts for kids
The Richey Suncoast Theatre is a special old building in New Port Richey, Florida. It started as a movie theater in 1925. Later, it was fixed up to be a place where plays are performed and where the community can gather. This theater is named after a famous silent film actor, Thomas Meighan. It first opened its doors on July 1, 1926, as the Meighan Theatre. The very first movie shown there was The New Klondike, starring Thomas Meighan. He wasn't there in person, but he sent a nice message to celebrate.
In 1930, the theater got new technology: sound! Thomas Meighan himself came to press the button that started the sound system. Sadly, the theater had to close in 1934 because of the Great Depression, a time when many people lost their jobs and money. But it reopened in 1938 as a community theater, changing its name to The New Port Richey Theatre. Today, it is known as the Richey Suncoast Theatre. The theater also hosts the Black Maria Film and Video Festival, which shows interesting films and videos.
A Dream for New Port Richey
Thomas Meighan's Vision for Florida
Thomas Meighan became interested in Florida after talking with his brother, James E. Meighan, who was a real estate agent. In 1925, Thomas bought land in Ocala, Florida. Then, in 1927, he built a home in New Port Richey, Florida, where he would spend his winters.
Meighan had a big dream for New Port Richey. He wanted it to become a famous movie town, like Hollywood in California, but on the East Coast. He even planned to film one of his movies, We're All Gamblers, there. However, the filming eventually moved to Miami.
Why the Dream Didn't Come True
Thomas Meighan and his wife hoped that other famous people would also come to live in New Port Richey. But his plan for a "Hollywood East" didn't work out. In the 1920s, there was a big boom in Florida where land prices went up very fast, but then the boom ended. This, along with the 1929 stock market crash, led to the start of the Great Depression. These tough economic times made it hard for Meighan's dream to come true.
