Surrounded by banner-toting teens, Cincinnati City Council members promised Saturday a cool quarter-million to save the Covedale Theater, a West Price Hill landmark.

At the Covedale Cinema Saturday, Jennifer Majewski of Delhi Township looks for support. (Mike Simons photo) | ZOOM |

        If the Cincinnati Young People's Theatre can match the funds, the non-profit theatrical group can purchase one of the most coveted pieces of property in Covedale's commercial district and make the former movie cinema its new home.

        Council member John Cranley said he'd rather see the historic building become a training ground for future performers than see it razed for a used-car lot or fast-food franchise, which two potential buyers are proposing.

        “We will match half the money necessary to purchase the building,” he said at a Saturday rally outside the theater, 4990 Glenway Ave. “From the time of the Greek tragedies to the times of the Shakespearean comedies, all great civilizations have been hallmarked by theater. The West Side is no different.

        “The strength of the West Side is the young people. These kids can some day perform at the Aronoff Center and bring the whole city together. Let's get this done. This is a one-time expense that will have dividends for the decades to come.”

        Mayor Charlie Luken and four council members — Alicia Reece, David Crowley, Pat DeWine and David Pepper — also attended to show support and rally the crowd of about 100.

        At Monday's finance committee session, committee chairman Mr. Cranley will introduce a motion to extend the $250,000 gift. Judging by their showing Saturday, council members will give the gift its final blessing at Wednesday's full session.

        “With the city's match, we're going to be here in very short order. With the city's motion, we'll be in fine fettle to make a new performing arts center in Cincinnati,” said Tim Perrino, the group's artistic director.

        Young People's Theatre wants to bring year-round theatrical productions. Saturday's rally also kicked off fund-raising. The group needs $495,000 to meet Hilsinger Realty's asking price. Mr. Perrino said it can be met in six weeks.

        Building owner Christian James said he's willing to wait “for sentimental reasons.” He took his first date to a movie at the Covedale Theater, and he and his partners are from the West Side.

        “At the same time, this is our business. This is our livelihood. That's our main interest, selling the property. We've already been holding out a little bit to see if the theater group can raise the funds,” he said.

        Kevin Kahny and Shelly Henke walked to the rally. They grew up in Price Hill and still live there. They plan to donate money.

        “Growing up here, you want it to stay,” said Ms. Henke.

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