The DAW In the News & Press Releases

 September 29, 2025  

Our Town, Our Theatre

The DAW Theatre, a beloved cultural landmark nestled in Tappahannock’s historic district, has been undergoing a dramatic transformation—one that promises to honor its storied past while ushering in a dazzling future. But they still need the community’s help.

Originally opened in 1939, The DAW Theatre quickly became a cornerstone of community life, hosting films, live performances, and local events. It survived a devastating fire in 1949, was fully renovated in 1982, and continued to serve the public until its closure in the late 1990s—its final screening being Titanic. Though the building was gutted in anticipation of a revival, it remained dormant for years. Now, a new vision is breathing life back into the DAW, blending its Art Deco charm with modern amenities to create a vibrant venue for movies, theatre, and entertainment.

New Cast Members Join the DAW Theatre Foundation Board

The DAW Theatre Foundation is proud to introduce new leadership and board members who are passionate about the arts and community revitalization:

• Beth Sharpe, the new Board Chair, brings her experience from Tappahannock’s Main Street revitalization efforts to the helm of the DAW’s fundraising mission. Her love for community and the arts is now focused on restoring this historic gem. Beth lives in Tappahannock with her husband and their two children. She is actively involved in community service through organizations such as the Girl Scouts and the Junior Woman’s Club, where she supports youth development and local outreach efforts. Her commitment to preserving the town’s character and fostering civic engagement makes her a passionate advocate for the DAW's restoration and future.
• Bernadette “Bernie” Barclay, a Tappahannock resident for 14 years, joins the board with over 30 years of marketing and communications experience. She is currently serving as the Multimedia Specialist at Rappahannock Community College, Bernie is a passionate advocate for the DAW’s revival and a proud stepmother and “Gigi” to two grandchildren.
• Janet Little, a professor of English at Rappahannock Community College, is pursuing her Doctorate in Arts in English Pedagogy. Originally from Richlands, Virginia, Janet brings grant writing expertise and a deep love for cinema and theatre to the board.

New Website, New Campaigns, New Momentum

The DAW Theatre Foundation has launched a newly updated website at www.thedawfoundation.org, where visitors can explore the theatre’s history, sign up for newsletters, local theater history, campaigns and donor information, follow the progress of its restoration, and more! 

The DAW Theatre Foundation has also restructured its giving campaigns under the banner “Our Town, Our Theatre.” This initiative offers three meaningful ways to contribute:

1. Project-Based Giving – Support specific stages of the restoration.
2. Personalized Gifts – Honor a loved one or business with a permanent tribute inside the theatre.
3. Annual Fund: “Keeping the Lights On” – Help ensure the theatre’s long-term sustainability.

Each campaign is designed with transparency and impact in mind.

Coming Soon: “Talkies” Podcast

In January 2026, the DAW Theatre will launch “Talkies,” a behind-the-scenes podcast hosted by Board Chair Beth Sharpe. The show will chronicle the theatre’s transformation, share stories from the community, and spotlight the people making it happen. Listen or view the podcast at www.thedawfoundation.org, or subscribe via the DAW’s new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@DAWTheatre.

The DAW Theatre is more than a building—it’s a beacon of creativity, resilience, and community spirit. The curtain is rising once again. Join us in bringing the magic back to Main Street. For more information, to donate, or to learn how to get involved, visit www.thedawfoundation.org.

 Rappahannock Times  |  February 05, 2025 

The DAW Theatre, a cherished landmark in the heart of Tappahannock, has officially been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a prestigious designation recognizing its historical and architectural significance. 

Virginia Main Street  | August 22, 2024 

Located in the heart of Tappahannock’s historic district, the DAW Theatre has a rich history dating back to its grand opening in February 1939. Named after its original owners—E.M. Doar, H.S. Atkinson, and R.B. Wallace—the theater was once a cultural hub, drawing crowds from across Tidewater with its 500-seat Art Deco style and hosting everything from live variety shows to town meetings. Notably, it screened “Stormy Weather,” featuring legendary African American performers like Lena Horne and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson.

Though nearly destroyed by fire in 1949, the DAW was swiftly restored and reopened within three months. After another major renovation in 1982, the theater continued to serve the community until it finally closed in the late 1990s.

Rappahannock Times  |  March 06, 2024 

A local organization’s plans for the revitalization of the DAW Theatre in downtown Tappahannock are inching closer to a reality.

The most recent step will take place later this month when the Virginia State Department of Historic Resources and The National Register, which is governed by The National Parks Department, will vote to consider acceptance of The DAW Theatre to both the State and National Register of Historic Buildings.

“What this means for The DAW Theatre is that we now qualify for federal and state historic tax credits,” DAW Theatre Foundation President Dana Bartholomew told the Rappahannock Times. “This would translate to $1.5 million towards the restoration of the theater. Without the building being listed as a historic site we would not qualify for these funds.”