Senator Theatre Acquires Liquor License Ahead Of Grand Reopening

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The Senator Theatre is one step closer to opening its doors and drawing large crowds once again. On Thursday, the theatre's owners asked the city for a liquor license.

Gigi Barnett has more.

Renovation signs decorate the doors at the Senator Theatre. Scaffolding on the walls is securely in place, and workers scramble on a sidewalk patch up.

It's been a long time coming for the landmark theatre.

"A lot of people are waiting. They like the movie theatre," a woman said.

But a notice shows the future of the new Senator. It's for a liquor license, and Thursday, the city approved the move.

"It's the thing that draws thousands of people in a day, a weekend when it's functioning at capacity," said Councilman Bill Henry.

"It's a great spot. It's a wonderful building. It's a great neighborhood," said co-owner James Cusack.

Senator owners James "Buzz" Cusack and his daughter, Kathleen Cusack-Lyon, say they'll sell alcohol at a cafe planned inside the new and improved theatre.

The "Brew and View" will also offer small plates of Mediterranean cuisine. Chef David Sherman will run it.

"We just really hope to come in and bring the community up. And just serve some really delicious small plates to people. It's the kind of place you come to and you don't have to get dressed up for it," Sherman said.

The theatre has been closed since April of last year. Neighbors say they are ready for a return because they say it will bring more foot traffic and businesses to the area.

"There are a lot of people in this neighborhood that would come and patronize this because, once again, it goes back to that concept of a village. You can walk to it and you can walk home," said Chris Hield, Senator visitor.

The name of the cafe... "Barzini." But the big question now is: When will the renovations end and the Senator open its doors? The owners won't say about that, but did say the cafe will offer al fresco dining.

The Senator will also have four screens to draw larger crowds. It had only one before.