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HR430 • 2026

Commending the Historic Masonic Theatre.

Commending the Historic Masonic Theatre.

Enacted

This bill passed the Legislature and reached final enactment based on the latest official action.

Sponsor
Austin
Last action
2026-03-13
Official status
Passed
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The official source material does not provide specific details on who else might be affected by this bill beyond the Historic Masonic Theatre itself.

Commending the Historic Masonic Theatre

This bill commends the Historic Masonic Theatre for its long history of serving the community through the arts.

What This Bill Does

  • Says that the House of Delegates wants to commend the Historic Masonic Theatre.
  • Tells the Clerk of the House to give a copy of this commendation to the theatre.

Who It Names or Affects

  • The Historic Masonic Theatre in Clifton Forge

Terms To Know

Clerk of the House
A person who works for the House of Delegates and helps with official duties.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The bill does not give any money or change laws, it just commends the theatre.
  • It only affects the Historic Masonic Theatre in Clifton Forge.

Bill History

  1. 2026-03-13 House

    Engrossed by House

  2. 2026-03-13 House

    Agreed to by House by voice vote

  3. 2026-03-12 House

    Presented and laid on Speaker's table 26104423D

Official Summary Text

Commending the Historic Masonic Theatre.

Current Bill Text

Read the full stored bill text 
Commending the Historic Masonic Theatre.
WHEREAS, the Historic Masonic Theatre, the heart of cultural life in Clifton Forge and one of the longest-operating theatres in the Commonwealth, has advanced the performing arts and served the community for more than 120 years; and
WHEREAS, built in 1905 and officially opened in 1906, the Historic Masonic Theatre was originally known as the Mason Hall and Opera House and served as a meeting place for a local Masonic organization; in its early years, the theatre hosted speakers, concerts, vaudeville performances, and showings of newsreels, silent films, and classic cinema; and
WHEREAS, the Historic Masonic Theatre remains a vibrant center for the arts, offering live performances, film screenings, educational programming, and special events that highlight and celebrate the rich heritage and creative spirit of the Alleghany Highlands; and
WHEREAS, well-known as a community gathering place and living link to the region's past, the Historic Masonic Theatre underwent a $6.9 million restoration in 2016, which reestablished the theatre as a source of pride for both local residents and patrons of the arts; and
WHEREAS, in January 2025, the Historic Masonic Theatre launched a new three-year capital campaign, Opening Doors, which has since raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support ongoing maintenance of this treasured landmark while creating new opportunities for artists, performers, and guests; and
WHEREAS, the Historic Masonic Theatre's commitment to educate, engage, and entertain audiences is reflected in its captivating performances and wide range of children's programs, workshops, and public forums; the theatre not only serves as a resource for local residents, but has also supported tourism and economic development in the region; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That the Historic Masonic Theatre hereby be commended for its incomparable legacy of service to the Clifton Forge community over the course of more than 120 years; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Historic Masonic Theatre as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for its contributions to the performing arts and unique role as a cultural touchstone in the Alleghany Highlands.