The historic Strand Theatre in downtown York will mark its 100th anniversary on Wednesday, Aug. 27.

Originally created by Nathan Appell and Appell Amusement Interests, the Strand Theatre was built in 1925 for both motion pictures and live entertainment in the center of downtown York. It was a film theater and venue for vaudeville acts that was later sold to Warner Bros. and RKO Stanley Warner.

In 1976, the Strand Theatre closed its doors after 50 years of operation due to economic decline in York. In 1978, the "Save Our Theaters" campaign raised more than $1 million to restore both the Strand Theatre and neighboring Capitol Theatre. In April 1980, the Strand-Capitol Performing Arts Center nonprofit organization was formed, and the Strand Theatre reopened with a gala performance by Ella Fitzgerald and the York Symphony Orchestra.

In the following decades, the Strand Theatre underwent numerous renovations, such as the acquisition and repurposing of several adjoining buildings and the addition of a balcony. It has welcomed artists such as Tony Bennett, Bernadette Peters, Chris Cornell, and John Legend, as well as nationally touring Broadway productions. The Strand Theatre has also served as a stage for emerging artists, student performances, and beloved community programs.

In May 2017, the Strand-Capitol Performing Arts Center was renamed the Appell Center for the Performing Arts after the passing of Louis Appell Jr., a vital figure in the revival of the Strand and Capitol theaters.

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a temporary closure and significant limitations to programming. But the York community met the challenge, and the Appell Center for the Performing Arts now hosts 200 events per year on its multiple stages with more than 200 education and community program offerings.

The milestone on Aug. 27 will kick off a season-long centennial celebration, with a free community day celebration event and a gala concert with Broadway performers Sutton Foster and Kelli O'Hara accompanied by the York Symphony Orchestra.