On May 22, the AUSD Construction Department hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly updated Kofman Auditorium at Historical Alameda High School.

Upgrades for the theater, which turns 100 years old today, include replacement fire and proscenium curtains; new fixed battens (for hanging the curtains); a full-size projection screen and state-of-the-art projector; new balcony guardrails; strengthened balcony light fixtures; new stage lights, sound systems, and control panels; a beautifully refinished stage floor; and three new dressing rooms.

Built in 1926, the auditorium designed by Carl Werner, who designed theaters and buildings throughout the Bay Area. The theater was eventually named after Abe and Sarah Kofman, in honor of Mr. Kofman, who as publisher of the Alameda Times Star joined forces with students in the 1970s to fight a plan to demolish the building.

The ceremony included a slide show by Ruth Boyd, the project manager who oversaw the improvements. We'd like to thank AHS student "Tech Wizards" for operating the lights, sound, projector screen, and curtains for the show!

• Learn more about the project and see photos from the event