EASTMAN THEATRE: 'Kodak's' OK
On May. 14th, 2008
I feel the negative reaction surrounding the name change of Eastman Theatre to Kodak Hall stems from the sense of eroding tradition, where any change is seen as threatening. I'll admit that "Eastman Theatre" sounds better than "Kodak Hall," but is it just because I'm used to hearing 
"Eastman Theatre" and "Kodak Hall" is a novelty? I wonder if those bothered by the name change know that George Eastman created the word "Kodak" himself. I doubt Eastman would be opposed to renaming the theater he funded to include a word he invented. On the contrary, I think as an inventor, he'd be OK with it.
"Eastman Theatre" and "Kodak Hall" is a novelty? I wonder if those bothered by the name change know that George Eastman created the word "Kodak" himself. I doubt Eastman would be opposed to renaming the theater he funded to include a word he invented. On the contrary, I think as an inventor, he'd be OK with it. BRENNA DORAN, ROCHESTER
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Louis Richards on May 15th, 2008
The writer is correct: George Eastman did invent the work "Kodak" - about 20 years before he built his theatre. Obviously, Mr. Eastman had the opportunity to select "Kodak" as the name of his theatre; he chose to name his ediface Eastman Theatre & Eastman School of Music. This isn't rocket science, this is what a man wanted and what a man did - let's not pretend he didn't know what he was doing. Any deviation from that is in direct opposition to George Eastman's original intent.
T.D. Rice on May 19th, 2008
Society is perpetually frightened with change. With age, man seems to grasp familiarity and shun anything that may invade his static bubble. I don't believe the root of the issue lies with the name selection itself, but the actual act of change is what truly bothers the public.
Evan on May 19th, 2008
Kodak Hall sounds lame...its a theater....why change it when its not broken??..Kodak Hall has a very harsh ring ....but lets change things that are working..!!..like ripping down the first indoor mall in the country for a business headquarters ...who are the people that are in charge of making these decisions?? because they are not good at it...has anybody ever thought to build up the river front (and not that stupid ferry idea)...WE HAVE A GIANT RIVER...GIANT RIVER = LOTS OF OPPORTUNITY....but lets keep doing the same lame planning over and over again..I know this is off the subject..Kodak Hall isnt a good name..its a classy area of the city...now it sounds like some place for bingo...its not the change that scares me...its what its changing to become....
K.Boone on May 20th, 2008
Louis Richards is misinformed and needs to check his facts. I completely agree with B. Doran and I applaud her for stating her views on such a controversial topic.