Warnors Center for the Performing Arts

The Warnors Center for the Performing Arts is a prominent cultural institution located in downtown Fresno, California, that encompasses a collection of entertainment venues, including the historic Warnors Theatre, the Star Palace banquet room, and Frank’s Place, a restaurant and bar. The center is dedicated to serving the entertainment needs of the entire community and has hosted a diverse range of events. The Warnors Theatre, the centerpiece of the center, is a historic landmark that was originally constructed in the 1920s by Alexander Pantages. Over the years, the theatre has changed hands, being owned by Warner Brothers in 1929, operated under Cinerama in the 1960s, and acquired by the City of Fresno in the 1970s. It was in 1973 that Frank Caglia, moved by his childhood memories and a strong desire to preserve the theatre's historic pipe organ, purchased the building and saved it from demolition. He renamed it Warnors Theatre, circumventing a copyright issue with Warner Brothers. In 2007, the Caglia family generously donated the theatre, and it became a registered nonprofit organization known as the Warnors Center for the Performing Arts. The center is currently undergoing restoration and maintenance, with detailed renovations planned for the coming years. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Warnors Center relies on fundraisers, donations, grants, and the support of volunteers and advisory groups to preserve and oversee the repairs of this historical Fresno jewel. The Warnors Center for the Performing Arts is not only a hub for entertainment but also plays a significant role in the revitalization of downtown Fresno and the preservation of local history. The organization invites the community and supporters to be a part of this endeavor, offering a unique experience that reflects the rich history and cultural significance of the Warnors Center.