The historic Polaris Theater in downtown Port Orchard has received a $377,000 grant through the state capital budget, marking a major step toward its full restoration.

Formerly known as the D&R, Twin Plaza and Dragonfly, the 101-year-old theater has long been a gathering place for film, music and live performances in South Kitsap. The nonprofit Port Orchard Historic Theatre Foundation, established by local leaders, has spearheaded the effort to bring the theater back to life.

“This is a huge step forward for the Polaris and South Kitsap,” said foundation board president Josh Johnson. “Thanks to the generous support of our community, we have begun the first phase of restoration and are now prepared to begin the full renovation of this special space on our main street.”

The state funding will support critical infrastructure improvements, including a new roof, HVAC replacement and interior renovations.

The recent grant builds on earlier contributions, including $50,000 from the Cowlitz Tribal Foundation in 2023 and $50,000 from Port Orchard’s two Rotary clubs. Additional donations through the annual Kitsap Great Give have helped fund the creation of Backstage Alley — a 1,000-square-foot outdoor performance and gathering space that has hosted a variety of events over the past 18 months. Local construction company BJC Group contributed in-kind labor to complete the outdoor venue.

In 2024, the Polaris also received a $50,000 Lowe’s Hometown Grant to restore the theater’s exterior to its 1920s appearance. That funding supported the restoration of the original ticket booth, new doors, poster boxes and historic masonry work.

The state grant was secured through a bipartisan effort led by Rep. Michelle Caldier, Rep. Adison Richards and Sen. Deb Krishnadasan, with unanimous support from Kitsap County Commissioners Oran Root, Christine Rolfes and Katie Walters.

“Now that our first phase work has been completed, we’re prepared to begin the reanimation of this historic space,” Johnson said. “It will provide cinema, music, live events, community and business gatherings and serve as a key partner in the economic and cultural restoration of downtown Port Orchard.”

The theater is expected to reopen in 2026. Fundraising and sponsorship efforts are ongoing to match the state’s investment and bring the full vision of the renovated Polaris to life.