Since moving to Shaw-Clarke in 2003, I have spent a lot of time imagining and conceptualizing a new and improved Berry/Hemphill intersection.
Travis Avenue Baptist Church is developing nicely. The Wal-Mart ruffled feathers (including mine) but at the very least has raised the visibility of the area and is contributing to the tax base.
I think it is time for something new at the NW corner of Berry and Hemphill.
Except for the sign, I don't see any architectural or design value in the building.
My dream for that corner is the sign to be salvaged for a new mixed-use development called The Berry.
It would have mid- to upscale living units, and retail on the ground, including everyday services and eateries. (I am tired of "urban villages" which only offer entertainment.)
The layout and retail available would encourage foot traffic from the neighborhood, and from the 4,000 or so members or Travis Avenue Baptist Church who enter the neighborhood twice a week.
Maybe the building isn't demolished, but the theater restored and the building expanded to what I've described above.
As cool as an indie theater would be, I don't see how - on its own - it would serve the needs of the neighborhood. Restoring it as part of a larger development would be more ideal.