Chehalis Theater Sold to Local Businessman, Will Be Reopened

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For the first time in 22 years, the long shuttered Chehalis Theater has a new owner, and if all goes to plan, the historic showplace will be back in operation this summer. 

On Friday, former owner and theater curator Daryl Lund sold his labor of love to Ralph Hubbert, of Chehalis. Hubbert, who owns Tires Inc. in Chehalis, purchased the building for $170,000 and has already hired a pair of locals to handle the day to day operations of the theater while he operates in a landlord-like capacity. He hopes to have the theater up and operating by Aug. 1. For the time being, Hubbert is remaining mum on the names of the new theater managers, but hinted that a revelation may come as early as next week.

Lund, who had owned the building since 1994, said the sale was an easy process, noting that, “The realtor handled everything and it was a smooth sailing deal.”

“I almost didn’t want to sell it,” noted Lund. 

Like many locals, he holds a heap of special memories of the theater near and dear to his heart. “Both of my parents helped me run it,” noted Lund, who also worked as a ticket taker at the theater back when he was in high school. “I have so many fond memories there.”

Although he had understandably mixed feelings about parting with the historic building, Lund noted that he is happy and confident that it will be in good hands. Lund and Hubbert went to school together, so they know each other well. 



“Ralph will do a good job with it. He really liked how I had tried to keep the thing original,” noted Lund. “He’s a first class guy and he’s going to put money into it and make it even cooler.”

Reciprocating Lund’s kind words Hubbert said, “Daryl kept it in pretty good shape. It’s kind of neat to keep it the way it was.” 

Still, Hubbert does plan on implementing a few upgrades to the theater. The details of those upgrades are a mystery for the time being but Hubbert is excited to get on with the show.

“I remember going there when I was a kid and watching movies and I know a lot of other people have fond memories too,” said Hubbert.

The Chehalis Theater is located at 558 North Market Blvd., Chehalis.