Plainfield’s Prewitt Theatre to See New Life

Tuesday, February 9, 2021 12:10 PM EDT Updated: Tuesday, February 9, 2021 01:01 PM EDT
By Mary Roberts, Writer/Reporter
Plainfield’s Prewitt Theatre to See New Life (photo courtesy of the town of Plainfield)

The town of Plainfield has approved a letter of intent with Keller Huff Restaurant Group to move forward with plans to renovate the historic Prewitt Theatre. The theater, which is located in downtown Plainfield, was acquired by the town in 2018.

The town says Keller Huff Restaurant Group’s project proposal includes an “upscale and unique but classic and casual” dining experience where customers can dine inside the former theatre, on the rooftop, and inside the former law office, which would be transformed into the bar area.

“The Town of Plainfield is enthusiastic and eager to enter a partnership with Keller Huff Restaurant Group,” said Town Manager Andrew Klinger. “Their development plan for the historic theatre aligns well with the Town’s Conceptual Downtown Redevelopment Plan. They are proposing a dining option and an event space for live entertainment, both strong desires from the community.”

The theater has been vacant since 2005. Since the acquisition, the town says it has restored the marquee and conducted a feasibility study on the building. After opening a Request for Proposal process, Keller Huff Restaurant Group approached the town with interest in redeveloping the property.

“Our group is looking forward to enhancing the historic fabric of our great community,” said Doug Huff, co-owner of Keller Huff Restaurant Group. “We are committed to making this project an anchor in Town, and to create and maintain a quality dining experience second to none in the area. Patrick Keller and I have a proven track record as local developers and will develop this artistic event venue and upscale restaurant as a local and regional attraction for individuals and businesses.”

The theater space would be renovated into a lounge and event space. The space is designed to accommodate weddings, comedy shows, concerts, live music, business meetings and movies.

The town says a project agreement with Keller Huff Restaurant Group will be developed over the next few months. Keller Huff Restaurant Group is planning to begin renovations on the project immediately.