Whimsadoodle Inc. proudly announced the investment in and future stewardship of the Historic Park Theatre from longtime owners and operators Jenna MacGregor and her mother, Sharon Seeley, continuing a cherished family legacy that began in 1968 with Mickey and Ola Stanger. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for one of Estes Park’s most beloved cultural landmarks.
The Historic Park Theatre is widely recognized as the oldest single-house motion picture theatre in the U.S., which was originally built as a movie theatre and still operates today. The Park Theatre is not only a centerpiece of downtown Estes Park; it is a nationally recognized cultural treasure. Originally constructed in 1913 by J.L. Jackson and completed by C.H. Bond, the theatre has stood as a gathering place for generations. In 1928, owner Ralph Gwynn added the iconic tower, creating what locals now affectionately call the “Tower of Love.” Today, the tower remains a star attraction in the mountain town and one of the most photographed and recognizable features of downtown Estes Park and a glowing symbol of the town’s creative spirit.
For generations, the Stanger family has preserved the warmth, character and community-centered mission of the Park Theatre. Today, that legacy continues through Jenna MacGregor and Sharon Seeley, whose dedication has kept the theatre thriving year-round as a gathering place for film, live performances and shared community experiences.
“We are incredibly grateful to Jenna and Sharon for their years of stewardship and for entrusting the future of this treasured place to Whimsadoodle,” says Walter Dietrich, president of Whimsadoodle Inc. “Their care and commitment have ensured the Park Theatre remains a living, breathing part of our downtown and our shared heritage.”
Looking ahead: A creative future rooted in community
Whimsadoodle Inc. has reached an agreement to invest in the next chapter of the Historic Park Theatre, with plans to begin thoughtful renovations in the spring. These updates will honor the soul of the theatre while preparing it to serve future generations with enhanced facilities, expanded programming and increased accessibility.
Whimsadoodle Inc. is more than an arts organization; it is the living legacy of Barb Marshall, a passionate advocate for the arts and a tireless champion for Estes Park’s creative community. Barb believed the true heartbeat of a town is found in its artists, storytellers, performers and makers. Following her sudden passing in 2024, her vision continues through Whimsadoodle, the foundation she built to ensure arts and culture remain central to the life of Estes Park.
“I have the profound privilege and honor of leading Whimsadoodle, the foundation created by Barb Marshall to support the arts and artists of Estes Park, ” Dietrich says. “Stepping into stewardship of the Historic Park Theatre is a responsibility we carry with deep respect, for the families who came before us, for the community who loves this place and for Barb’s vision of a vibrant, creative Estes Park.”
Under Whimsadoodle’s care, the Historic Park Theatre will continue to operate as a dynamic, multi-use cultural venue supporting film, live music, theatre, special events and community programming while strengthening its role as a creative anchor in the heart of downtown.
Community support welcome
As a nonprofit organization, Whimsadoodle welcomes community support and donations to help preserve, restore and expand the programming of the Historic Park Theatre. For more information, visit whimsadoodle.org.
