Ritz Community Theatre Secures $650K Grant to Revitalize Snyder’s Historic Landmark

We are excited to announce that the Ritz Community Theatre has successfully raised $650,000 in funding—a milestone that marks a significant step forward in preserving a cherished piece of Snyder’s history. Nestled in the heart of Scurry County, Snyder, the county seat located in west‐central Texas, is a town rich with heritage, having been built around a central courthouse square where the Ritz Theatre proudly stands on the south side. Originally known as the Cozy Theater when T. L. Lollar acquired the venue in 1921, the Ritz quickly became a community landmark, undergoing major renovations during the oil boom era and reopening in February 1950 with a newly fireproof structure and revitalized interior. Although the theatre ceased operating in 1970 and the building faced deterioration over time, the story took a hopeful turn when descendants of the Lollar family donated the property to The Ritz Community Theatre Incorporated in 1991. This generous act led to a series of restoration efforts beginning in 1992, including a new roof and the complete restoration of the original marquee and storefront, which have rekindled memories of its former grandeur. The latest infusion of funds will be dedicated to further transforming the space into a vibrant hub for live theatre, musical comedies, movies, and community events. With the guidance of renowned architect Dr. Michael A. Jones from Texas Tech University, the project promises not only to restore the building’s art deco charm but also to rejuvenate it for modern performance and public use. This remarkable funding achievement signifies the community’s unwavering commitment to celebrating and preserving local heritage while simultaneously setting the stage for a new era of cultural enrichment in Snyder and beyond.