THE CEDAR RAPIDS AREA THEATRE ORGAN SOCIETY (CRATOS) is a local non-profit organization comprised of members who love and promote the theatre pipe organ, like those pictured here, and the music written for them. CRATOS is also a local chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society (ATOS).  CRATOS members have restored and maintain the historic Mighty Wurlitzer installed in the beautiful Paramount Theatre for the Performing Arts in downtown Cedar Rapids, IA.  This original-installation (still in its original home since the theatre opened in 1928) is one of only a few still in existence.   In addition, the nearby Theatre Cedar Rapids (originally the RKO Iowa Theatre) also possesses an original installation theatre pipe organ from 1928, which is also featured in occasional CRATOS concerts.

CRATOS has been the official caretaker of the Paramount Theatre’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ since 1969. The City of Cedar Rapids, which owns both the Paramount and the Wurlitzer – a matching set since 1928, and now one of just 36 original installations still in existance – has consistently entrusted CRATOS with the task of ensuring the organ remains an inseperable part of the theatre and the community.

CRATOS is working with the City of Cedar Rapids on the next steps in the process of saving this magnificent piece of musical and cultural history. CRATOS is a non-profit organization which exists solely on membership fees and chartiable contributions from the public. Now, more than ever, CRATOS needs your help to ensure the organization can continue caring for the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ.

CRATOS is also working with Cedar Rapids Barton Inc (CRBI), which owns and maintains the incredible “Rhinestone Barton” organ at Theatre Cedar Rapids.  This unique example of 1927 Barton-Wangerin theatre organs experienced severe damage to its console during the flooding in Cedar Rapids and is currently awaiting removal from the theatre for a more thorough damage assessment.

How you can help:

Charitiable contributions made to CRATOS, a 501(c)3 non profit organization, will be applied to the CRATOS general fund, which supports the efforts to preserve and maintain both the Paramount Wurlitzer and the Rhinestone Barton.  Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Please help CRATOS in our efforts to save these cultural treasures of Cedar Rapids.  We look forward to the day when the theatres and the organs are once again heard and enjoyed by the public.

Donate Now

You may send a check to CRATOS via US Postal service at the following address:

The Cedar Rapids Area Theatre Organ Society
PO Box 611
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-0611
US