Petaluma, California holds a special place in the hearts of many with the establishment of the Polly Klass Community Theater. This 100-seat theater was named in memory of Polly Klass, who was abducted in 1993. Her love for theater was evident, as she participated in all her school plays. Her mother's words, "If you want to remember my daughter, remember her for how she lived," have inspired the theater's revival.

Reopening After 20 Years

After being shuttered for two decades, the theater was reopened in 2022 as a result of a community effort. It stands as a testament to the community's dedication to keeping Polly's memory alive. "There's no better way to celebrate her life than to be in this space and have that stage full of young enthusiasm and vibrancy and fun and talent," said Howe.

Community Support and Fundraising

Petaluma business owner Michael "Bug" Deakin understood the importance of the theater in the community and took it upon himself to organize a rock and roll fundraiser. Music, he believes, is powerful as it brings people together and can take one back to a joyful place in life. Space Orchestra, a 13-piece Joe Cocker tribute band, will perform a two-night concert. "This is a full-bodied orchestra that you can feel down to your bones," Deakin declared. Saint James added, "It's a rock and roll orchestra from outer space."The band will perform Cocker's iconic "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" album. Saint James said, "The live record by far is one of the most overwhelming joyous live records to ever be released. It's the kind of music that you really feel something."Deakin has rallied the community behind the event. Rock and Roll Chef Gray Rollin, who just returned from a tour with Linkin Park, is co-sponsoring the event. His restaurant, Belly Left Coast Kitchen & Taproom in Santa Rosa, is also involved. "I'm so happy to be a sponsor with the Space Orchestra and the Polly Klaas Theater in Petaluma," Rollin said.The event has also attracted the support of iconic music artist Stanley Mouse, known for his Grateful Dead and Journey album covers. He has created an original concert poster to commemorate the event. Deakin said, "The amazing sound of this 1911 church repurposed as a theater is going to just roll your socks up and down folks. You got to come see the Polly Klaas Theater."

Future of the Theater

Howe is excited about this event and the theater's future support of performing arts. "It's so important that we as a community have a place for performing arts. We will be here for generations to come and it is all because of this community that cared so much," he said.For more information on the Polly Klass Community Theater, visit https://www.pollyklaastheater.org/.