Liberty Theatre

Liberty Theatre Adaptive Reuse Project

The History Behind the Liberty Theatre

The Liberty Theater has been a historical foundation to the Condon area for generations. Originally opened as the American Theatre around 1914 before being renamed the Liberty Theatre in 1918, this building became a gathering space for the community, and later became a hub for creatives. Now with the help of the Condon Arts Council, the intention is to restore this pivotal space to it’s once glory, and bring together creatives and artists, giving them a space to explore their artistic values and gain an understanding in different creative mediums.

Our Goals for the Adaptive Reuse Project

Restore the Liberty Theatre into the jewel that it once was.

Provide a space for education, exploration and community building.

Create a one-stop location for artistic expression.

Create an accessible space for all creatives to enjoy.

Liberty Theatre Through the Years

1914–1918

Originally established on Main Street as the American Theatre, listed in early motion picture directories.

Renamed the Liberty Theatre by proprietor J.B. Sparks.

1918

Served as a primary local cinema and community gathering space, later utilized for community events and regional arts.

Later Decades

1939

Noted for architectural and remodeling updates overseen by Pacific Northwest theater architect Day Walter Hilborn.

2022

Purchased by Condon Arts Council with the goal of rescuing the deteriorating, century-old frontier building.

Received a $250,000 federal allocation and regional support to kickstart rehabilitation as a regional performing arts hub.

2024

2025

Awarded a $1 million grant from the Gilliam County Court to fully restore and structurally connect the Liberty Theatre with the neighboring historic Sweeney Mortuary, creating a unified campus known as the Condon Center for the Arts.

The venue regularly hosts live musical acts, youth theater productions, and community celebrations.

2026