20th Century Theater in Oakley is ready to host any type of event

Opening in 1941 as a movie theater, the 20th Century Theater has been an Oakley landmark for more than 80 years. It was converted into an event venue in 1983, but, in recent years, it’s been refreshed with renovations that highlight its historic Art Deco architecture adding modern features. Today, it can host many types of events in its historic space, such as corporate events, private events, celebrations, concerts and occasional film screenings with a flexible layout that can easily shift from theater seating to open floor space.

“We host a wide range of events, from weddings, corporate gatherings and private celebrations to concerts and occasional indie film screenings,” says Sharon Penker, general manager. “If you have an event, we can host it.”

The 20th Century Theater can accomodate such a wide variety of events because of versatile amenities and features. Those who book the venue have access to an upstairs bar and speakeasy, VIP lounge and billiards room, LED accent lighting and a unique in-floor seating system.

“Our theater room has two levels and is fully accessible. On the lower level closest to the stage, 124 theater-style fixed seats can fold into the floor. That means the space can shift from a presentation, ceremony or screening to a cocktail hour, dinner or reception at the push of a button,” says Penker.

For corporate and nonprofit events, as well as weddings, the built-in décor and ambiance are a huge plus. “The venue has so much history and charm. It has speakeasy, and old Hollywood vibes, which elevate the experience. Because the space already has so much character, clients typically don’t have a need to add much décor,” says Penker.

This charm includes eight 84-inch glass chandeliers, gold entry doors and side lights, eight custom indoor murals, and two large exterior murals.

The theater also retains the original marquee. “When clients book our venue, they get to have their name in lights,” adds Penker.

Other amenities include a fully equipped modern sound system, a projector and movie screen, in-house décor, on-site coordination, and valet parking.

Venue capacity also shifts by event type, from 300 guests for a seated wedding to 500 for a standing corporate cocktail event and to 800 for a concert. Penker says she and her team are ready to help clients plan any type of events, even if on a tighter timeline.

“I can even do a wedding in three months with what we have in-house. The only potential hangup would be catering but all three [preferred vendors] are incredible and can accommodate a quick turnaround. It depends on how intricate your event is,” she says. The more intricate the event, the more lead time Penker says she will need to bring the vision to life.

Penker suggests that anyone looking for an event venue schedule a tour of the 20th Century Theater to get true feel for the place.

“Walking into the theater feels like stepping back in time,” she says. “There is a sense of excitement and nostalgia here that people feel as soon as they enter.”