Theatre Architecture through the Ages

From the earliest known theatres in ancient Greece to today’s multiplex cinemas and IMAX theatres, two components have remained virtually unchanged, the viewing area and the stage. These elements remain, but are also in a state of flux. The theatre of Dionysus in Athens set the rules for today’s modern theatres and set standards for acoustics that are still reproduced in today’s modern cinemas. We also keep the seating structure, although not made of stone, our theatres are shaped on an arc and seats are placed on risers. But some aspects of architecture are unique to place, time and the civilizations that built them, such as the famous Globe Theatre.

Cinema Architecture in America does tap into the classic elements, but also adds some details that reflect the social mood and financial health of the era. Today’s theatrical architecture is aimed at making movies more accessible to movie goers and perhaps become one of tomorrow’s historic theatres. Delving into America’s theatre archives we find historic cinemas, historic theatres and cinema architecture that reveals much about our nation’s history.

Common Fate of Historic Theatres of America

Sadly, many of America’s beautiful theatres have been demolished. Once grand examples of architectural genius and attention to detail, these glorious theatres have been destroyed from coast to coast. There are many that remain in danger of meeting this fate. Some of these theaters were originally built for early movies and were finely appointed with artistic details worthy of grand palaces. Their gilded prosceniums, columns and ceilings are now dusted with age and the plaster is cracked and caving in on many of these once resplendent theatres. Their once sumptuous velvet curtains are disintegrating and filled with ages of dust as their doors remain locked. Preserving these few theatres that are fighting decay is hard won fight, but groups dedicated to this endeavor are championing historic theaters all over the country.

In Topeka, Ks, one such theater that was on the endangered list is the Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas. In 1992, it was slated for demolition, even though in 1974 it was placed on the list of national historic places. But activists were able to convince the state legislators to designate the then Jayhawk Theatre, the official state theatre of Kansas. This saved the building from the wrecking ball, and since then efforts to restore the theatre have been gaining traction and attention of like-minded preservationists. However, renovations haven’t progressed much beyond making the structure safe for the public. There are many obscure buildings of cinema architecture throughout our country waiting for preservationists to help.

Visit Historic Cinemas and Historic Theatres of California

Thankfully there are many famous cinemas that have been preserved and are as gorgeous as the day they opened. California is home to many fine examples of historic theatres and has over one hundred historic theatres registered in the Preservation Directory. With so many historic cinemas and historic theatres on the list, it is difficult to select just a few to visit, but here is a compilation of a select few must see cinemas:

• Fox Theatre–Opened in 1921 as the T&D in Salinas, California, the theatre was purchased by the Fox West Coast Theatres cinema chain in 1930. This theater has been completely renovated and today shows classic cinema films, hosts private events and weddings, as well as providing live stage performances including musical artists.
• Grand Lake Theatre–Opened in 1926 by the West Coast Theatres and like the Fox Theatre, began as a vaudeville and silent movie house. Located in Oakland, California, Grand Lake Theatre enjoys its status in the top ten vintage theatres in the United States. The theatre is still showing movies, including 3D, in its glorious theatres decorated in Egyptian and Moorish opulent decor.
• Los Angeles Theatre–Opened in 1932, the grandeur of this theatre is unparalleled. One visit to the men’s room and one may feel as if they are frozen time. Rows of seating for shoe shines adorn one wall of the marbled luxury facility. This opulence is seen throughout the theatre, in the lobby, the ballroom, the balconies and throughout the entire structure. The building was the creme de la creme of its day, complete with modern dimmer lighting by Westinghouse and state of the art sound for communicating with guests using a complex paging system as well as amplifying sound with speakers placed above the proscenium. The theater now books events for the ballroom and is planning to bring Broadway shows to California, putting actors back on its stage.
• Million Dollar Theatre–Opened by Sid Grauman in 1918, this famous cinema was the first opulent theatre in Los Angeles and as many theatres of the day was dedicated to vaudeville performances and silver screen stars. Today the theater hosts special screenings, events and performances. It is also available for filming, providing the quintessential backdrop for historical theatres in America.

Theatre Architecture of Today

Today’s cinematic theatres are often technological wonders with sleek modern day architecture consisting mainly of concrete and steel, although carpeting may remind one of eras gone by. The walls are treated to block sound as these multiplex theatres normally have at least eight theatres, some have 14 and a select few offer more. Having several smaller cinemas housed in one large complex allows the theatres to show many films at once, targeting all movie goers instead of the select few that wish to see the foreign films and cult classics. No matter what you are looking for, you are most certain to find your film showing at your local movieplex.

If you find this story fascinating, we have a treasure trove of information about the history of your favorite theatres.  Sign up for an account on historictheatres.org and enter through the STAGE DOOR!