The historic Padua Hills Theatre will have its grand reopening with a benefit gala for Claremont Heritage Sunday

The gala takes place from 5 to 10 p.m. at the theatre, 4467 Padua Ave.

The Padua Hills Theatre was built in 1928 in the foothills above Claremont, and from 1933 to 1974 the Mexican Players theater troupe performed there.

A-list Hollywood celebrities would perform at the theatre in its glory years but the performances stopped in 1974.

The Garner family, who built the theatre, later transferred the theater to Pomona College in the 1980s.

In 1997, City Hall took over the property from Pomona College after the city acquired the land that is adjacent to Claremont Hills Wilderness Park.

In November, the city council approved a 55-year lease agreement with Arteco Partners to renovate the venue.

The gala on Sunday will include a special awards presentation, ribbon cutting, dinner, dancing to big band sounds and a reception, with black tie optional.

Admission is $100 per person.

Tickets will be held at the door. Claremont Heritage is a non-profit organization that is "devoted to the preservation of the history and historic character of Claremont through research, education and advocacy."

Information or reservations: (909) 621-0848; heritage.91711@verizon.net; or send checks payable to Claremont Heritage.