Anchorage's most beautiful theater in jeopardy.

An opulent movie theater that has been an Anchorage icon for almost 60 years is facing what could be its final curtain.

The 4th Avenue Theatre -- elegant yet strong enough to withstand North America's greatest earthquake unscathed -- is on the market and could fall victim to the wrecking ball.

I have so many memories of attending movies in this theater. I took many of my past loves to sit in the balcony and watch a film while stealing kisses between sips of our sodas.

The interior of the building was beautiful. There were carved wooden banisters and gorgeous murals along the walls depicting Alaska's history. The carpet was rich, and the seats were comfortable, making the movie going experience seem like a night at the opera. The ceiling had lights arranged that lit up to display the big dipper as the lights dimmed for the start of the film. I always enjoyed my movie going experience within the opulent surroundings.

I guess we drifted away from patronizing the Fourth Avenue Theater when they started adding multi-plexes and the downtown area got so crowded that finding a place to park that was within walking distance became increasingly difficult. As the 80's turned into the 90's I just found myself going there less and less. But whenever I was downtown I made a point of wandering by the old girl and looking to see how she was holding up.

They don't show movies in the theater anymore and have turned it into a souvenir shop. The last time I went inside it was just to show my fifteen year old daughter a little something of our past. She was impressed but I just felt she did not get the full impact of what the theater once was like. That she did not understand the effect that the theater once had on those of us that were lucky enough to sit in her comfortable seats as the lights dimmed and the curtain opened as we anticipated a magical night of action, adventure, or romance.

It would be a shame to not allow others to experience the same magical feeling that my generation enjoyed within the rich interior of this historic old building.