By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

The community was invited to a once-in-a-lifetime event held Sunday – the celebration of the historic Alex Theatre turning 91. The evening included a self-guided tour of the theatre that highlighted significant spots for people to see. Not to be missed was the history of the iconic spire that was relit in 2015 after fundraising efforts resulted in $75,000 being donated from businesses and community partners.

Among the attendees at Sunday’s event were members of the Glendale Unified School District board of education and Glendale City Council. Mayor Paula Devine took the microphone at one point to remind the crowd of the importance that the Alex has played in the history of Glendale over the last 91 years.

“The Alex Theatre has been an anchor for the arts and entertainment district,” she said.

Glendale Arts President Peter Weir welcomed guests, saying that it was inspiring to see how many patrons made sure to stop at the Alex Theatre when coming to Glendale.

Elissa Glickman, chief executive officer of Glendale Arts, also spoke on the bond between the community and the theatre, commenting on the impact the theatre has had over the years.

“I have seen people like Jackson Browne, Kenny Loggins, Martin Short, John Cleese and Eric Idle, just to name a few, walk through these doors,” she said. “Glendale Arts invested over $125,000 last year in rental subsidies to bring in groups like the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and the L.A. Ballet. [We also brought in the] Glendale Educational Foundation fundraisers so that you can appreciate the wonder of what these foundations do. It’s because of you that we’re able to do that. We have made it possible for grandparents and parents to bring their kids and introduce them to a place that they went to as kids. We are in a place where folks saw their first movie or saw their first live dance performance or their first concert.

“With your help we will continue to be a place that your children and grandchildren can bring their children and their grandchildren.”

  robin goldsworthy