Somerville Theatre secures future and becomes its own landlord

No, not chicken butt; that's an owl. Marquee at the theatre, photo by CSB. The employee group that took over Somerville Theatre programming last year announced today it's bought the Davis Square building that's housed the theatre since 1914 for $12 million. The move means the building will continue to show movies and remain home to the Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre on the second floor and Mr. Crepe. "We took a leap of faith with this purchase," said Ian Judge, co-owner of CSB Theatres, Inc. and a Somerville native. "We dreamed of buying the building some day, but that day came sooner than anticipated. Luckily, there are people who believe in us and believe in the magic of this place, who helped make this purchase possible. With their backing, and the support of our local community, we know we can protect the theatre and its employees, keep prices affordable, and start laying the groundwork to preserve it for the next 100 years." In addition to financing by First Citizens Bank