AERO THEATER MAY CLOSE

photo by Carolanne Sudderth

Carolanne Sudderth

Mirror staff writer

   When the curtain rings down at the Aero Theatre, on Montana Avenue, on November 6, it may be for the last time. The “last of the neighborhood theatres” is apparently closing its doors, another victim of rising rents. Sam Robbins, who describes herself as “a long-time employee and patron,” said operator Chris Robbins’ Aero lease was not renewed when the building changed hands some months ago by “the guy who bought the block. We can’t afford that rent. So we’re out of a job.”
   Since then, the theatre has operated on a month-to-month basis. “And we’re not making ends meet anymore so we’re out,” Robbins said.
   The new owner of the building, James Rosenfeld, has reportedly said that he plans to preserve the Aero, but is said to be looking for another operator. At press time, he could not be reached for comment. 
   Both the Wilshire/Montana Neighborhood Association and the North of Montana Association will ask the city’s Landmarks Commission to begin landmark status proceedings on the Aero, according to City Council member Kevin McKeown. 
   Built in 1940, the Aero’s name derives from Douglas Aircraft, then a major presence in the city.