You’ve seen him on MTV’s “Jackass” and “Viva La Bam” and perhaps even around town, but you may be seeing him even more if Bam Margera gains permission to open his own theater in West Chester. West Chester’s own prankster is interested in owning “a piece of West Chester” he told The Philadelphia Inquirer. Margera and his business partner, Rex’s bar owner Don Moore, plan to open a theater in town on 142 E. Market St.
Margera plans for this theater to host stand-up comedians, films and even musical acts. When the Inquirer asked him about booking these name-brand musical acts, he replied by saying, “I’ve met every band I’ve ever wanted to see.” Perhaps with the help of his well-known name, this theater will draw some big name entertainment for locals looking to have a good time.
Without any surprise, Margera’s newest plan is certainly turning a lot of heads. Many locals, including West Chester Borough Council President H. Paul Fitzpatrick, question Margera’s true intent. The concern is what exactly he will be doing with this theater, or if the “Jackass” stunts will be performed on this site.
“This has nothing to do with Margera, but with the public’s safety and welfare,” Council Woman Carolyn Comitta said to The Inquirer. “It’s close to a residential neighborhood and public park.”
Although politicians who oppose the idea said that West Chester has enough bars, Margera feels that his is legitimate.
“A lot of people think it’s going to be ‘Jackass:’ the Bar, but it’s not at all,” Margera told Fox News. “It’s going to be a legitimate theater.”
Moore told The Inquirer that this theater will accommodate 400 people. It will be a mixture of World Cafe Live and the Keswick Theater.
Construction has begun for the projected opening of the theater this spring. In order for the council to approve Margera’s and Moore’s newest business plan, they will need to dismiss Margera’s reputation and focus on the entertainment that he will bring into the community.
For more information regarding this development, check out the Philadelphia Inquirer website, www.philly.com/inquirer.
Jackie Aliotta is a third-year student majoring in communication studies. She can be reached at JA609350@wcupa.edu.