Lorenzo Theater

Opened in 1947, the Lorenzo Theater was a vibrant neighborhood movie house and community gathering space, distinguished by its Streamline Moderne design and richly decorated interiors. At the heart of the theater’s identity are its murals by Anthony Heinsbergen—a rare and technically sophisticated scheme featuring black-light-activated fluorescent effects across the auditorium walls and ceiling.

After decades of vacancy and severe fire damage in 2020, the theater is now undergoing a comprehensive rehabilitation led by the Alameda County Community Development Agency. The project combines structural reconstruction with the careful preservation of key historic features, including the marquee, tower, and ticket booth. The completion and reopening is planned for December 2026.

EverGreene is leading the conservation and restoration of the historic murals—one of the theater’s most significant and vulnerable elements. This work includes stabilization of surviving original material, inpainting and integration of damaged areas, and the recreation of lost sections to match Heinsbergen’s original vision, including the unique fluorescent effects that defined the space.

As the building is reconstructed and modernized for future use, the restored murals will once again anchor the interior—reestablishing the Lorenzo Theater as a dynamic cultural venue while preserving a rare example of mid-century theatrical artistry.