For more than a century, one place close to campus has been a source of entertainment for countless Virginia Tech students—the Lyric Theatre.
After its establishment in 1909 as a venue to offer silent films to the local community and as an escape for students, the Lyric occupied three locations before, in 1929, a group of local businessmen partnered to build a grand cinema for "talkies." Their vision would become the current Lyric Theatre on College Avenue, a majestic Art Deco building adorned with two distinctive masks over the marquis that welcomed students for less than $1.
The new Lyric seated 900 people and had an orchestra pit in front of the stage for occasional theatrical productions. (After several renovations, however, the seating has been reduced to about 500, with what I suspect are far more comfortable seats than those in earlier days). The Lyric was one of three sound motion-picture theatres in the state at the time, and it was especially a treat for students whose hometowns didn't yet have a movie theatre. For decades, the Lyric hosted many first-run films, even as several other movie theatres appeared in Blacksburg in the 1970s and '80s. However, the advent of the area's first multiplex in Christiansburg offered too much competition for the Blacksburg theatres, and all eventually closed their doors. The Lyric ceased showing movies in 1989. Over the next five years, the theatre was leased off and on by Virginia Tech for class instruction and by the Student Union film program while Squires Student Center was undergoing a renovation.
In 1994, a group of local Blacksburg citizens formed a nonprofit organization, the Lyric Council. The council raised more than $600,000 to renovate and revive the iconic theatre, and it reopened in 1996. The renovation restored the beautiful red silk tapestries that cover the walls, which are lit by elegant lanterns designed for the theatre when it first opened. Seats were upholstered and a new sound system was installed, and the current building owner granted a 30-year rent-free lease.
Today, the theatre is staffed mostly by community volunteers, including students. Second-run films are featured, along with some festival-winning films, musical artists, and the occasional theatrical performance. Conversion from 35mm film equipment to more modern digital projection is the highest priority for the theatre.
Lyric Council volunteers have embarked on a project to document the story of this Blacksburg icon with a book that interweaves history, photos, and special memories. They're seeking your input. Do you have a fond memory of the Lyric you’d like to share? Learn more about this special publication and how to share your memories at www.thelyric.com.
Spring 2013
Class reunions for the 20th through the 50th anniversaries are held at five-year intervals. Each reunion includes optional campus tours, a Friday evening meal, and plenty of time for reminiscing and dancing. Saturdays feature a morning brunch and pregame festivities, followed by the game. Seeing the Hokies play in Lane Stadium is a treat for all reunion participants. Special seating is arranged for reunion registrants at Tech’s sold-out games, and rooms are set aside at The Inn at Virginia Tech for reservation by reunion registrants. Banquets and brunches are at the inn as well. For more information on the 2013 homecomings and reunions, visit www.alumni.vt.edu/reunion/.
Multiple homecomings are hosted throughout the football season to coincide with home games. Eight academic college programs are spread across the home schedule, along with special homecomings for graduate alumni, Corps of Cadets alumni, and other groups. Homecomings are open to all alumni of the host groups, regardless of graduation year. In each case, there is a game-day gathering, plentiful pregame tailgate food, and the opportunity to reunite with friends, faculty, and staff. Lodging and game tickets (if needed) are available to registrants on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to register early. For more information on the 2013 homecomings and reunions, visit www.alumni.vt.edu/reunion/.