Warren's Galactic Theatre is moving
Owner David Podsnap said he's outgrown current home; new location is in former Dan's Wigwam Restaurant
Warren’s hardest working man in showbiz is moving.
David Podnsap, who turned the tiny Galactic Theatre at 508 Main St. into what’s been called the best live music venue in the East Bay, is moving the music hall, restaurant and movie theatre a few doors north, to the former home of Dan’s Wigwam Restaurant at 440 Main St.
“I’m crazy, it’s true” he said Thursday, watching from the front door as workers removed ceiling tiles from the old restaurant in the first steps of a renovation expected to take about a month.
“It’s going to be bigger and better.
Mr. Podsnap opened his Galactic Theatre in 2016 in the 508 Main St. building formerly owned by Warren Town Solicitor Anthony DeSisto. Mr. DeSisto recently sold the property and the change in ownership, as well as growing pains in the small space, convinced Mr. Podsnap the time was right to move.
“I want to make this an even better destination,” he said. “It’ll be one step upscale, but I still want it to be rock n’ roll gritty.”
It’s been a busy few months at the Galactic. The Warren Town Council recently approved the venue for a full BV liquor license, and recent shows — of bluegrass, honky tonk country, rock n’ roll, open mics, as well as movies — are regular sell-outs. He plans to keep the vibe the same at the new location, but there will be more: A long bar along the south wall and a smaller one in the front window, a lounge/quiet area in the back and an as-yet undetermined number of seats and tables.
Mr. Podsnap is not sure what the capacity will be, but he will find out when Warren Fire Chief James Sousa visits and takes measurements. He believes the new venue will be able to handle in the neighborhood of 50 to 70 patrons.
Mr. Podsnap also needs to appear before the Warren Zoning Board to request a parking variance, as the property does not have enough onsite parking.
If all goes according to plan, Mr. Podsnap plans to keep the old Galactic open through the end of February. He believes he’ll be able to finish all the necessary renovations in the new place by then.
“It’s going to be great,” he said.