Lance Sterling (at center) shown explaining his vision for The Rose Dinner Theatre, a new 1,300 venue being constructed in the former Glelson's Market location in Paseo Colorado.

Construction has begun on a new 1,300-seat dinner theater in the former Gelson’s Market location in Paseo Pasadena, situated along Green Street just east of Marengo Avenue. Called The Rose Dinner Theatre, the venue will take up 24,600 square-feet and feature a 1,470 square-foot stage, along with three separate restaurant areas and a 1,040 square-foot bar area.

According to owner Lance Sterling of Sterling Venue Ventures, LLC, the theatre has been two years in the planning, and “construction began as soon as the permits came in.”

“This is an under-served market,” Sterling told Pasadena Now, “and the theatre is the best of both worlds — a great place to eat, and a great place to see a show. It’s a great date night.”

Along with a full upscale steakhouse-style menu, the theatre will also feature a casual “Chef’s Galley” near the lobby lounge area, serving pizza, burgers and sushi. The Chef’s Galley will also serve as a stand-alone dining facility, open seven days a week, and, according to Sterling, “will benefit the residents of Paseo Pasadena.”

Sterling has a long history in the Southland with successful music and theatre venues. He was one of the founders of the former House of Blues in West Hollywood, and also owns the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. He has owned the Canyon Club in Agoura for sixteen years.

“There is really nothing like this in the whole San Gabriel Valley,” said Sterling, who grew up in Covina, and said he frequents the Pasadena area often.

“I’ve been trying to come here for ten years,” he said.

“For musicians who are playing the area, it’s perfect,” he continued. “They can stay in one hotel, and play all the local clubs from Hollywood to the Valley, and now they can add Pasadena.”

“This is the culmination of everything I learned, mistakes and all, from running the House of Blues,” he laughed. “I’m just making music more available.”

The theatre has shows planned through February, 2017, including shows with The Tubes, Rickie Lee Jones and Paul Stanley. The Rose Dinner Theatre is scheduled to open on February 14, with singer/songwriter Judy Collins.