We moved to Camas in 2002. For years, the historic Garfield Building and Joyce Garver Theatre provided a venue for students and performers of all ages. It also provided a venue for community concerts for all to enjoy. Many traveling artists performing in the theater marveled at its wonderful acoustics — not achieved in many modern theaters.
Currently, this historic building is in serious disrepair. The classrooms surrounding the theater were not built to today’s school earthquake standards; fortunately, the theater itself exceeds earthquake standards. There has not been a major renovation to the theater in years. A portion of the school bond before voters will renovate the building and theater. Besides modernizing the theater, the building will house all school district preschool programs, Community Education classes, and programs for seniors.
Due to the fast growth in our community and sheer demand, the Camas High School Theater does not provide adequate space for all school district performances. Since the Garfield Building and Joyce Garver Theatre closed in 2009 there have been countless plays, choir and band concerts from our elementary and middle school students held in lunchrooms and gyms throughout the district.
One can only dream that the Joyce Garver Theatre may once again host community concerts. Please vote “yes” to allow all these much-needed capital projects.
