Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation

The whitewashed walls are punctuated by paintings and candle sconces, and the altar is dressed with a spectacular reredos (altar piece), altar frontal, and candlesticks. Period santos fill the niches. The interior walls and altar rail are painted to represent marble or tapestry. A small balcony overhanging the interior front of the building adds charm and utility and can be used to house vendors such as musicians or photographers. The acoustics are ideal for any genre of music, overall making this the perfect place for all of life’s special celebrations and events.

Using materials and building methods similar to its original construction, the Casa has been restored to its original appearance during the time Presidio Commandant José de la Guerra and his family resided there, between 1828 and 1858. The courtyard offers strings of lights for ambiance, decomposed granite flooring in an open courtyard, and easy access for vendors/rental companies. Use of a prep kitchen, restrooms, and storage room on site is also available.

SBTHP recently completed the restoration of this special facility, which has had continuous community use since its construction as the Pueblo Theatre in 1925. The beautiful interior, with its recently restored original oak floors, stage, and a mural by American artist Ross Dickenson, is an ideal location for weddings, lectures, social gatherings, and theatre events. ​ Built for the Santa Barbara School of the Arts, the Alhecama Theatre was originally used for drama, music, and dance classes. Alice Schott purchased the theatre in 1939 when the school struggled due to the Great Depression. She renamed it the Alhecama after her daughters Alice, Helen, Catherine, and Mary Lou. Schott deeded the school property to the City of Santa Barbara School District in 1945 and it was used jointly by the Adult Education program and Santa Barbara Junior College, later renamed Santa Barbara City College, for many years. It was purchased by the State of California in 1982 to become part of El Presidio SHP.

The main room contains a large wooden table and chairs ideal for meetings, a flat screen TV for presentations, and a beautiful hearth for extra warmth and comfort. The facility also has a full bathroom and beautifully tiled kitchenette. The secluded exterior courtyard contains a lovely garden with patio table and chairs, fire pit, and bird bath. The site emanates history and elegance and will make your next event unique.