Columbiana theater has new owners
COLUMBIANA — Columbiana’s Main Street Theater has new owners, according to a press release by SP Inc. — the company that acquired the property at 5 N. Main St. from RonJon Investment for $850,000.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in making this acquisition a success, especially Ronjon Investment, the City of Columbiana and the Columbiana Cultural Collective,” the press release states. “Together, we look forward to ushering in a new era of arts and culture in Columbiana, ensuring the Main Street Theater remains a beloved destination for generations to come.”
John and Beth Kufleitner, under RonJon Investment, purchased the property in 2022 with plans to eventually sell the 400-seat venue to Columbiana Cultural Collective within five years.
While no details were given regarding the group’s potential acquisition of the property under the new ownership, the Columbiana Cultural Collective will continue its involvement in the theater.
“In keeping with the spirit of community, Columbiana Community Theater will partner with the Columbiana Cultural Collective to curate a diverse range of quality events and performances,” the press release states.
Transfer of ownership from RonJon Investment to Roman Bradford Corporation was first reported by the Columbiana County auditor on Friday. Roman Bradford, along with COMPCO, is owned by SP Inc.
The theater was built in 1952. SP Inc became the theater’s fourth owner in the past 25 years. Don and Dawn Arthurs bought the building in 2009 and invested $1 million to renovate and restore the city landmark.
In January of 2022, the property was sold to RonJon Investments. Under Kufleitner’s ownership, the theater became a venue displaying diverse talent and welcoming to all with the creation of The Squeaky Wheel Production Company’s special-needs theater.
The press release stressed the theater will continue to serve the community and offer inclusive performances, stating the theater will continue to provide “accessibility in the arts to those with special needs” and remain “an integral part of the theater’s identity, reflecting our collective aspiration to create a space where everyone can enjoy and participate in the transformative power of the arts.”
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