Wes Anderson joins campaign to restore Houston's Garden Oaks Theater

A preservation campaign led by Arthouse Houston, in collaboration with Preservation Houston, Gensler, and filmmaker Wes Anderson, aims to restore the historic Garden Oaks Theater in Houston. Built in 1947 and designed by Dallas-based Pettigrew & Worley, the theater features an art deco lobby and a 783-seat auditorium. It was converted into a church in the 1990s, and its original shopfront windows and blade sign were altered. The building was quietly purchased last year by Heights Equity Trust and Sage Equity Partners, prompting demolition fears. Arthouse Houston, which previously saved the River Oaks Theater, intervened to halt demolition. The group seeks to raise $14 million by July 30, with $7.1 million for purchase and $6.9 million for renovations. Plans include restoring original features like the marquee, adding a soda fountain/cafe, and creating makerspaces and classrooms. A benefit gala, the Wes Anderson Homecoming Soiree, took place on July 17 at Zilkha Hall, Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, marking the 30th anniversary of Anderson's debut film Bottle Rocket. The event featured a screening of Anderson's short films, a Q&A, and an auction of memorabilia and experiences with John Waters and John Cameron Mitchell.