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Vista Theater
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| Location: | 218 Iron St., Negaunee, Michigan |
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| Built: | 1926 |
| Architect: | David E. Anderson |
| Architectural style: | Early Commercial |
| Governing body: | Private |
| NRHP Reference#: | 05000714[1] |
| Added to NRHP: | July 22, 2005 |
The Vista Theater is a theatre located at 218 Iron Street in Negaunee, Michigan. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.[1]
The Vista Theater was built by Negaunee businessman Jafet Rytkonen.[2] Rytkonen was a partner in the Star, another Negaunee theater, but desired a larger and grander theatre than the Star was. In 1926, Rytkonen hired architect David E. Anderson to design the Vista; the new theatre opened on September 20, 1926.[2] Rytkonen ran the theatre until his retirement in 1950, after which his son, William, and son-in-law, Peter Ghiardi, took over management of the Vista.[2]
The Vista Theater remained open until 1972, when William Rytkonen died. In 1973, a group of local citizens formed the Peninsula Arts Appreciation Council (PAAC).[2] This group took over the Vista and used it as a venue for multiple artistic forms, including amateur theater productions, musical programs and concerts, films, puppet shows, art exhibits, and arts workshops.[2] In the 2000s, the group began restoration of the theatre,[2] and in 2005 the structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.[1] As of 2009, PAAC owns and operates the Vista, and plans are to have the theatre open year-round.[3]
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