A Duluth Staple Could Soon Be Gone — Here’s What’s Happening At The West

If you live in the Duluth area, chances are high you have been to some type of show at the West Theatre. It's a huge staple in our neck of the woods.

If you go there frequently or have even passed by the area lately, you probably noticed that the spot has been closed. The theater has been temporarily closed for awhile and now, is in danger of possibly closing.

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In a message shared to their official website recently, owner Bob Boone shared a long message to the spot's loyal customers, explaining the closure and the state of the theater at the moment.

The West, by the way, is home to movies, shows and even live music. It is located at 319 North Central Avenue next to Midcoast Catering Company and the AlhambraTheatre.

Lauren Wells, Townsquare Media Duluth

 Bob Boone Shares Insight Into The Current State Of The West Theatre

In his lengthy message, Boone writes that the reasons behind the current closure of the theater are 'complicated and confusing' and says there is no simple explanation. However, COVID-19 is cited as a factor, as the West opened eight months prior, and lost all of its revenue for two years.

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The message also cites that Boone sold his home of more than thirty years in an effort to pay off loans he accumulated during COVID and to put the remainder back into the theater.

This, paired with a few other unfortunate events, has left the theater in a bad place financially. The owner is looking for help to replace two matured loans totaling just under $200,000.

Here's How You Can Help The West Theatre

As of now, Bob Boone has until the end of the month to raise $190,000 dollars to keep the West running. This will help the spot resume operations and allow someone else to come in and take over, which he says would be a highly-profitable venture.

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There's a few different ways you can help. First, you could mail a check in any amount to the West Theatre, at P.O. Box 16122 in Duluth. You could also donate easily donate online or become a member today. There are several different membership tiers.

If you have any questions, you are asked to reach out to Boone at 218-940-6237. The theater is definitely unique and brings a lot to the area and the community. It would be a shame to see it go.