Mission Statement:
The Mission of the Friends of the Gem Theater is to encourage the appreciation and development of all forms of art; in particular the performing and visual arts in the borough of Derry, Pennsylvania and in the surrounding areas.
Supporting Statement:
Once the Gem Theater is fully operational, the Friends of the Gem Theater will continue to serve our patrons and sponsors by providing a place for the development of artistic expression in all forms and the creative process to all people through exhibitions, performances, and experiences that open minds and enrich lives. Some such processes will be in the form of live theatrical performance, musical performance, poetry reading, comedic expression, dance and other kinds of performing art. Movies will eventually be added to these varying genres.
The Gem Theater, through the volunteer organization under which it is titled; Friends of the Gem Theater; will also host local artisans by providing a space for the development, display, and the sale of their original artistic creations during performances.
We aspire to be an important voice for both the performing and visual arts world by creating art locally that has a positive impact on the community. We believe that we can enhance our community through the collaborative use of artistry in all genres.
Our organization will work to form strong partnerships with other for profit and nonprofit organizations and individuals in the community. The Friends of the Gem Theater will serve as a springboard project that will assist in the revitalization of the local community’s business district. This will provide hope to our upcoming generations and provide them with the encouragement to stay close to home and place their roots and their talents in the local community.
The Gem Theater: A Century of History and a Vision for the Future
Originally opened in 1916, the Gem Theater in Derry has been a cornerstone of local history for more than a century. In its early years, the theater served as a vibrant cultural hub, showcasing silent films, Vaudeville acts, and small theatrical productions. This period reflected the golden age of live entertainment, when venues like the Gem brought communities together through shared artistic experiences.
By 1972, the building closed its doors as a movie theater. In the decades that followed, the space transitioned through a variety of uses, housing different businesses while its performance legacy remained part of its identity.
A Revival Rooted in Community
A new chapter began in the early 1990s when local entrepreneur Joan Reynolds purchased the building to support her growing company, Joan’s Quality Baked Goods & Catering. While the space served her business needs, Joan remained deeply connected to the building’s artistic past.
Driven by her appreciation for the arts and her commitment to local youth, Joan reopened the theater as a creative outlet for high school students. Rather than focusing on commercial productions, the space became a welcoming environment where young people could perform music, explore creativity, and express themselves.
During this time, the Gem Theater hosted performances from regional bands such as The Juliana Theory and God’s Green Apples, both of whom went on to achieve wider recognition. The final performance in this era took place in October 1999, after which Joan sold the building.
Renewed Vision and Non-Profit Leadership
More than a decade later, in 2012, Joan reacquired the property. While the building was used for storage and residential purposes in the years that followed, her vision for the theater never faded.
In 2024, Joan formally established The Friends of Gem Theater, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the appreciation and development of the arts while contributing to the revitalization of Derry’s business district.
Once restored, the Gem Theater is envisioned as a multi-use cultural venue that will host plays, concerts, and community events, while also providing creative opportunities for local artists and youth.
Restoring a Community Landmark
The building currently requires significant renovation, and community fundraising efforts are underway to support its restoration. The goal is to return the Gem Theater to its role as a hub for creativity, connection, and cultural engagement in the heart of Derry.
The Friends of Gem Theater is actively seeking board members who have an interest in the performing arts and a passion for supporting the restoration process. Individuals interested in serving are encouraged to contact the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce to be connected with Joan Reynolds.
Recognizing Community Impact
The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Joan Reynolds, the Gem Theater, and The Friends of Gem Theater as Non-Profit of the Month, celebrating their dedication to preserving and revitalizing a beloved community landmark.
1915-1916
The Gem Theater was originally constructed between 1915 and 1916 and served as a community movie house for over five decades.1970-1972
After closing in 1970, the space was used briefly by the Derry and Latrobe Community Players from 1970 to 1972 before sitting vacant for more than ten years.1983-1985
In 1983, the building was converted to a hardware store owned and operated by the Snyder family until 1985. It then transitioned into a short-lived dog grooming business for approximately a year.1987-1999
A new chapter began in 1987 when Joan Reynolds acquired the building and opened Joan’s Quality Baked Goods & Catering. Known for all-natural homemade breads, baked goods, and nourishing prepared foods, the business thrived for over a decade. Reynolds and her team — affectionately known as the “Lunch Ladies” — delivered their goods to businesses throughout the Greensburg and Latrobe areas from 1987 until 1999.1992
In 1992, a group of local young people rediscovered the theater’s original performance space. With passion and entrepreneurial spirit, they rehabilitated the interior just enough to host live music. They brought in local, regional, and even national touring bands, marking the first grassroots effort to revive the Gem Theater as a performing arts venue within the Borough of Derry.