It was a moment that sparked optimism throughout the neighborhood — a whisper that spread like wildfire: the Uptown Theater was about to undergo a jaw-dropping transformation into a cutting-edge music venue.
The anticipation was palpable, as we hoped it would breathe new life into our streets, infusing them with vibrant energy and attracting dollars to our local businesses.
Returning from an exhilarating trip to Chicago, where I witnessed the intense showdown between the US and Jamaica in the Gold Cup soccer tournament, I stumbled upon a sight that made my heart skip a beat.
A line of eager young adults snaked its way toward the newly revamped Uptown Theater, forming a tangible thread of excitement.
In my mind's eye, I had envisioned a line that would stretch down the block, spilling onto Lagoon Ave., even encroaching upon the Lunds & Byerlys parking lot.
Lo and behold, it was no mere vision — it was a reality! The line weaved through the parking lot, boldly venturing behind FedEx and Mesa Pizza Uptown before meandering into the vast expanse of the Lunds & Byerlys parking lot.
Embracing a capacity of 2,500, the re-imagined Uptown Theater promises to create this fantastical queue on a regular basis.
However, with this newfound excitement comes an ardent plea: let us preserve respect, not only for one another but also for the property that surrounds us, as our community thrives on this wave of rejuvenation.
Naturally, the Uptown Theater's reinvention cannot replace the beloved Uptown Bar and Cafe, the go to haven for bands during the vibrant 80s and 90s. Sadly, its walls fell victim to the wrecking ball in 2010, making way for the now vacant Uptown Apple Store — an unfortunate loss etched in our memories.
Nevertheless, hope shines brightly next door on Hennepin Ave. S., where The Granada, formerly known as the Suburban World Theater, has transformed into a haven for music enthusiasts. Offering an intimate setting, it beckons patrons to relish tunes while savoring drinks and snacks in its inviting front entry. The concept of revitalizing historic theaters into modern music venues has proved triumphant at venues like the Varsity Theater in Dinkytown and the Palace in St. Paul.
According to a Star Tribune article from February 1, 2022, the Uptown Theater, originally known as the Lagoon Theater when it opened in 1916, underwent a $2 million makeover in 2012. It continued enchanting moviegoers until the pandemic stormed in like an unexpected thunderstorm in March 2020, forcing the curtain to fall temporarily on its cinematic splendor.
Yet, our fervent desire remains — to witness the commercial heart of Uptown pulsating with renewed vigor. We crave the arrival of diverse local businesses that will rekindle the flame of this cherished district, igniting its unique allure once more. If only we could make those elusive rents more accessible, casting open the doors to fresh possibilities.
Now, please allow me to indulge you with an anecdote from my recent visit to Mesa, where a tantalizing slice of pizza awaited my taste buds.
Engaging in conversation with Emily, one of the staff members, I inquired about her experience working the previous weekend.
Her eyes twinkled with enthusiasm as she exclaimed, "On Friday night, we had a line out the door for two hours and it was the busiest I’ve ever seen it!"
Eager to keep the exploration going, I stepped into the newly minted Daisy's Bar, which occupies the former Cowboy Slim's space, conveniently located just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Uptown Theater.
A frothy pint of beer in hand, I engaged in conversation with Aubry, the friendly bartender. She radiated an infectious optimism for the future of our neighborhood, embodying the spirit of this revitalization.
Here's an intriguing tidbit I uncovered during our chat: Daisy's Bar is part of the same organization responsible for the development, ownership and management of the Uptown Theater, as well as other notable Minneapolis establishments like the Armory and Reign.
This ambitious investment signifies an unyielding commitment to our community, hinting at an impending transformation. I have an inkling that skeptics who swore off returning to the city will be irresistibly drawn back by the siren call of our city's incredible diversity, positive energy, art, entertainment, culture and natural splendor.
Mind you, this is purely my personal conviction, but deep down, I wholeheartedly believe it will come to pass.
So, let us celebrate the Uptown Theater's resurgence — a catalyst for a dynamic rebirth of music, energy and community. May it herald an era of unbridled delight, where suburbanites and visitors alike flock to revel in the remarkable tapestry of experiences that our resurgent city has to offer.
