A new building just went up on Front Street in Oceano and some hope it brings more people to the area.
The two-story building belongs to the Great American Melodrama and will be a part of the group’s theatrical operations.
Creative Director Dan Schultz says the Melodrama has outgrown the building it performed in for more than 40 years.
“This building that we are in is actually an old Rexel drug store,” said Schultz. “For years we’ve been renting an offsite location to build the sets and paint the drops and build all the costumes.”
The new 14,000 square foot building will house the scene and costume shop and create space for rehearsals.
“So we are finally moving everything here. It will make our business more efficient and allow us to put a better product on stage,” added Schultz.
The Melodrama’s neighbor, Sylvester’s Burgers, hopes to see bigger lines out its doors too.
“It’s going to be really good for Oceano,” said Hailey Johnson, a server at Sylvester’s Burgers. “I think that it will bring a lot of people to Sylvester’s and to the coast line”
New retailers will also be able to move into the new space.
“Hopefully somebody will want to open like a coffee shop or an ice cream parlor, something to add value to Front Street and Oceano,” said Shultz.
Neighbors are also excited.
Lacey Raymond says her family drives more than 30 minutes to see a show.
“It’s part of my childhood and I’m always excited to see the programs they have.”
Neighbors’ only concern is parking.
“We live right there and if there is a second chance to, like if [my wife] has to go to the store or something, it’s gone,” said Jason Raymond. “The parking spot is gone.”
The Melodrama will still use the original building to perform sell-out shows for years to come.
It just wrapped up its fall play, “Scary Poppins” and will be opening the curtains soon for the “Christmas Extravaganza”. Tickets sell out quick so make sure to order ahead.
The Melodrama hopes the new building will be completed next week.
