September 2026 Theatre Restoration Update
Three Years of Recovery:
Since a catastrophic ceiling collapse in 2023, Auburn State Theatre has accomplished:
- Exploratory demo and Environmental remediation (asbestos and lead) completed.
- Roof truss structure reconstructed with seismic improvements.
- Ceiling framing reconstructed with seismic improvements.
- Theatre offices moved and remodeled.
- Engineering completed.
- Construction documents completed.
- Current building codes incorporated including ADA (accessibility), fire sprinkler and life safety improvements.
- Permits nearing approval.
- Contractor prepared to begin construction.
- Capital campaign actively underway with 100% Board participation.
Today, the recovery phase is substantially complete. Next comes your support. The Auburn State Theatre is actively pursuing funding for the next phase of construction. Every investment and connection moves us one step closer to getting the Theatre open. Reach out today to discover how you can help support the historic Auburn State Theatre.
Many Thanks to our generous community partners for hosting events while the Theatre is under reconstruction
On Stage • On Screen
Cinema at the State Presents
Phenomenon
30th Anniversary Screening
Sponsored by Hour in the Tower Escape Room, Old Town Pizza, and City of Auburn
An amiable, small-town everyman is inexplicably transformed into a genius with telekinetic powers. Starring John Travolta, Kyra Sedgwick, Forest Whitaker, and Robert Duvall.
Running time: 2h 3m
Saturday, September 12, 2026
7:30 PM
Location— Old Town Auburn
Free Admission
This Event is outdoors so bring your chairs!
Auburn State Theatre Features
History Expedition Presents…
Fremont Sierra Expedition
In the winter of 1843–44, John C. Frémont drove his Second Expedition through 100 brutal Sierra miles between Bridgeport and Strawberry, California. Our modern History Expeditions team has researched the lost route and for five days beginning September 9th, we’re retracing the steps of the men who composed this Expedition, using first account diaries, maps, sketches and today’s maps, GPS, and hard-earned mountain experience.
Doors open at 6 PM, ticket holders will be able to enter to win a History Expeditions gift basket!
Running time: approx. 2h
Friday, September 18, 2026
7:00 PM
Location—
Crooked Lane Brewery,
536 Grass Valley Highway in Auburn
General Admission $15 (includes $3 fee)
Buy Tickets
Cinema at the State Presents
500 Days In The Wild
Sponsored by Jane Hamilton
Award-winning director and cinematographer Dianne Whelan is the only person to complete this epic journey of discovery—hiking, biking, paddling, snowshoeing and skiing the entire length of the Trans Canada trail, across land and water trails from sea to sea. If you saw her film 40 Days at Base Camp we screened in January, you won’t want to miss seeing this film!
Running time: 2h 4m
Thursday, September 24, 2026
7:00 PM
Location— Odd Fellows Lodge #7, 1226½ Lincoln Way in Auburn
Tickets: $15 Adults, $12 Seniors and Kids under 12 ($2 fees included)
Buy Tickets
Cinema at the State Presents
Trail Running Film Festival
Trail Running Film Festival’s mission is to celebrate running as a universal practice to explore our collective and individual potential and pursue our wildest dreams. We accomplish this by documenting the culture of trail running, supporting filmmakers and creatives, and hosting events that bring our community together.
“We believe the trails are for everyone, because the mountains don’t judge. Trail running is about effort, it’s about freedom, it’s about nature. It’s about connection with the whole community, and everyone deserves that.” Fabrice Perrin
Running time: 2h
Friday,
October 9,
2026
7:00 PM
Location— Odd Fellows Lodge #7, 1226½ Lincoln Way in Auburn
Tickets: $15 Adults, $12 Seniors and Kids under 12 ($2 fees included)
Buy Tickets
AST and STAC Present
Golden Age of Radio, Halloween
State Theatre Acting Company (STAC) closes out its summer classic Golden Age of Radio series with the fan-favorite “spooky” show, featuring creepy, scary episodes complete with costumes and LIVE Foley sound effects (a unique technique that involves creating and performing everyday sounds for radio audiences).
More info...
Running time: Approximately 2h
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Show begins at 6:30 PM
Location— First Congregational Church, 710 Auburn Ravine Road in Auburn
Admission is Free; Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
Cinema at the State Presents
9 to 5
Sponsored by The Sugar Plump Fairies
Office satire about three female secretaries who decide to get revenge on their tyrannical, sexist boss by abducting him and running the business themselves. Join us and the Sugar Plump Fairies in honoring and celebrating Dolly Parton by attending this award-winning comedy.
Running time: 1h 50m
Thursday,
October 15, 2026
7:00 PM
Location— Odd Fellows Lodge #7, 1226½ Lincoln Way in Auburn