Guitar greats pay homage to LA shop owner in documentary

Cinema at the State presents "Norman's Rare Guitars" at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Odd Fellows Lodge #7, 1226-½ Lincoln Way in Auburn. Step into Norman's Rare Guitars, a world-renowned institution where legendary musicians jam and find inspiration. Meet its beloved founder and one of the world's foremost experts on vintage guitars, Norman Harris, as musicians such as Joe Bonamassa, T-Bone Burnett, Richie Sambora and the late Eddie Van Halen and Tom Petty sing his praises in this heartfelt film. Sponsored by Debra Oldziewski and Joel & Raenel Toste, this documentary chronicles the shop's unique spirit as Harris reflects on his legacy while facing the challenge of retirement, marking a turning point for this cultural haven. When Harris opened for business in 1975 on Ventura Boulevard in Tarzana, he had no idea his little shop would become a destination, and he, a celebrity. Mostly because, back in the day, people didn't really care about the "vintage" concept. "What I have always called it is 'functional art,' " he says, "… a guitar, it makes music. Each one sounds different, plays differently and feels different. I think that's what gives them pizzazz; it's the love people have put into them." There will be a Q&A with the film's director, Devin Dilmore, following the screening. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and kids under 12 (including $2 fee) Purchase tickets at AuburnStateTheatre.org or 530-885-0156. Doors open at 6 p.m.