The Historic YAM Theatre

The Historic YAM Theatre Overview

In the 1920’s America experienced a building boom of “movie palaces.” The “Portola Theater” opened in August 1926 and was billed as one of the most up-to-date motion picture theaters in the State of New Mexico, offering comfortable seating and modern organ music with a large stage. In 1929, the “Portola Theater” became the “Palace Theater.” In 1932, the “Palace Theater” was purchased, reopened and renamed “The Portola.” Later that year the theater was renovated and given a new name “The Yam,” taking its name from the major agricultural crop produced in Roosevelt County at the time, sweet potatoes. It remained a working theater and retained the name “The Yam” it once again closed it doors. In 2002, through a private donation from Addie Peed Swearingen, the theater was purchased and renovated. Today the facility includes a meeting room, lobby, ticket booth, dressing room, bathrooms, concession area, projection booth and large multi-use theater space. It is an ideal location to celebrate your big day. Gather your family and friends and experience an unforgettable wedding day at The Historic YAM Theatre.