Marla Gibbs’ Arts Group Buys Leimert Theater

Actress Marla Gibbs’ Crossroads Arts Academy has purchased the Leimert theater complex in Leimert Park from the Jehovah’s Witnesses for $3.2 million and will convert the site into a playhouse and concert hall, academy officials have announced.

The complex, on 43rd Place near Leimert Boulevard, includes what will be an 800-seat main stage and an adjacent property with a 99-seat theater, classrooms, a restaurant and banquet hall.

Gibbs, who also owns the landmark jazz club Marla’s Memory Lane on King Boulevard, said the academy would move its offices to the complex within a week, and that classes and performances will be offered at the new facility this year.