Injured theater-goer sues Jefferson Theater, management

Frances Devall says she was severely injured while attending a Lamar University production at the Jefferson Theater nearly two years ago.

Seeking to recover more than $100,000 in medical expenses, Devall filed suit against the Jefferson Theater Preservation Society and the Venuetech Management Group on March 4 in the Jefferson County District Court.

Devall's suit does not state how she was injured during the production.

The suit only states that "Defendants were in control of the premises � and owed Plaintiff a duty to exercise ordinary care."

The suit continues by alleging the Preservation Society and Venuetech negligently failed to maintain and inspect its premises and failed to warn theater patrons of premises defects.

"As a result of the Defendants' negligence, Plaintiff suffered severe and debilitating injuries," the suit said. "To date, Plaintiff's medical expenses � exceed $100,000.00.

"At this time, the Plaintiff is unable to plead a specific amount of damages, but alleges that her damages are far in excess of the jurisdictional requirements of this court."

Devall is also suing for past and future mental anguish and impairment.

She is represented by attorney Jill Chatelain of the McPherson, Monk, Hughes, Bradley, Wimberley & Steele law firm.

Judge Bob Wortham, 58th Judicial District, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. A181-384