Contribute to The Fox Oakland Project

In 1999 the Friends of the Oakland Fox, a grassroots nonprofit organization commonly known as "FOOF," was formed to advocate for the preservation and restoration of the Fox Oakland.  However it soon became apparent that advocacy alone would not save the Fox.  In response to the project's need for additional funding, FOOF wrote fundraising into its role.  FOOF's volunteer board of directors and members are feverishly working behind the scenes to raise $1.2 million to ensure the successful restoration one of Oakland's treasures.  FOOF's efforts will significantly aid in the preservation, renovation and restoration. 

Proceeds will bring the theater's hallmark gilded guardians that flank the stage, the auditorium's spectacular faux-painted barrel-vaulted ceiling, and the terrazzo that flows around the art deco ticket booth back to their original glory.  But it doesn't stop there.  FOOF is committed to the preservation and eventual full restoration of this historic jewel. Meantime, funds raised over the $1.2 million goal will underwrite mosaics that grace lobby ceilings, bas reliefs, and the replacement of lighting fixtures and furniture.

The Passion Behind the Scenes
Why spend time and effort – and money – to save the Fox Oakland?  This 80-year-old theater is an irreplaceable part of the East Bay's rich and lively history.  Returned to its original, colorful vibrancy, the Fox Theater will be a fitting cornerstone for Oakland's emerging Uptown Entertainment District.  Fans of classic theaters from the gilded age of entertainment will delight in the Fox Oakland's flamboyance.  Architectural preservationists will be treated to a sumptuous blend of Indian, Moorish and Middle Eastern motifs expressed in murals, gilt work, painted ceilings, tile work and ornate embellishments.

But the Fox Oakland is not a museum.  It will once again be an exciting, state-of-the-art, professionally managed, live entertainment venue showcasing a broad array of established local, national and international performers.  The Fox will also feature upcoming talent from the Oakland School for the Arts.  And the Fox is not just another theater.  Among its planned innovations is seating that can be arranged in an intimate club or bistro-style around tables or in traditional theater-style.  With a capacity of 500 to 2,200 guests, its large stage, increasingly rare architectural detail, and a convenient Telegraph Avenue location, near BART, buses and freeways, the Fox Oakland will return to its stature as a significant entertainment destination.

Your Role
The Fox Oakland has friends but needs many, many more to regain – and preserve -- its lost grandeur.  What cost $3.5 million to build in 1928 could not be reproduced today at any price -- but it can be restored.  The Friends of the Oakland Fox has already raised over $250,000 in donations and pledges toward the $1.2 million needed for renovation work that would otherwise be delayed – or never undertaken at all.

There are no auditions for donor and volunteer roles. There are, however, opportunities galore. Everyone is invited to step into the limelight and become a Friend of the Oakland Fox.

Want a starring role?  Donors of $2,500 or more will be recognized with engraved tiles prominently featured in the sidewalk front of the Fox Oakland.  Additionally, they will be honored on a plaque in the lobby where they will be joined by the names of the campaign's $1,000 donors.  Something larger, perhaps?  The art deco ticket booth commands the attention of all Fox Theater-goers and passers-by and will honor the campaign's largest donor.  Other recognitions include a limited edition poster of the Fox Oakland marquee (while supplies last), tickets to the opening night gala, and Friends of the Oakland Fox memberships.  For a complete list of all of the donor recognition opportunities and to donate online  visit http://ga1.org/foxoakland/capital_giving.html.

Donation Options (new options coming)