The Alcazar Theatre, a Carpinteria landmark, is preparing to celebrate its 98th anniversary with a weekend of special events honoring its rich history and vibrant future, April 24-26.

The event will also will kick off the theater’s 2026 capital campaign.

The celebration begins Friday with a private VIP reception hosted by John
Palminteri, followed by a public screening of the Academy Award-winning film “The Artist” at 7:15 p.m.; doors open at 6:45 p.m.

The evening will also feature special guest André Luthard, grandson of The Alcazar Theatre’s founder Oliver Prickett, offering a connection to the Alcazar’s early days.

Those attending are encouraged to dress in late 1920s-’30s or cocktail attire.

Festivities continue at 7 p.m. Saturday with an evening of six stand-up comedians and a touch of magic.

On Sunday Women Making Change will co-host a free panel discussion, Women and Water, featuring leaders from water-related fields at 2 p.m.

Jaime Diamond will moderate the panel of three inspiring women Jena Shoaf Acos, Holly Lohuis, and Ava Schulenberg.

The short film “Battle of the Blues,” a documentary examining the majestic blue whales found off the Southern California coast, will be shown after the panel talk.

Closing. out the weekend there will be a jazz concert featuring Italian pianist and composer Antonio Artese, whose music dances between jazz and classical music from the earliest notes, at 7 p.m. Sunday, organizers said.

Joining Artese on stage are Miriam Dance (vocals), Leo Rubio (sax), Santino Tafarella (bass), and Matt Perko (drums).

“As the Alcazar approaches its 100th anniversary, it is also looking ahead,” theater officials said. “Recent upgrades to lighting and sound systems mark an important step toward becoming a state-of-the-art venue, while continuing to serve its nonprofit mission to educate, enlighten, inform and inspire the community through the performing arts.”

For more information about anniversary events, visit thealcazar.org.