Parkway Theatre
Oakland, CA Photo courtesy Devil Doll
Here's are a couple of neon signs that grace the Parkway Theatre in Oakland, CA. After original opening back in the 1920's, the Parkway went through some slow times. The theatre re-opened in 1998 as the Parkway Speakeasy Theatre.
An unusual aspect of the Parkway is beer and pizza can be purchased and the audience sits on couches and lounge chairs instead of typical theatre seats. 10-05
Novato Theatre
Novato, CA Photo courtesy D. Randy Riggs
The neon was recently turned on again at the small movie theatre in Novato, California (Marin County). The Novato Theatre is not open presently, but they are trying to maintain the building in hopes of having it open in the future for plays, etc. However, it will take a lot of money to retrofit the building for earthquake safety. 04-06
Del Mar Theatre
Santa Cruz, CA Photo courtesy Paul Bauke
Here's the famous Del Mar Theatre from downtown Santa Cruz, CA. The Del Mar opened in 1936 and was an area landmark until being suddenly shut down in November 1999. Fortunately, due to the effort of the community, preservation groups, and the redevelopment agency, among others, the Del Mar was reopened in a new grand opening on March 2, 2001. 02-07
Varsity Theatre
Davis, CA Photo courtesy Dave & Debra van Hulsteyn
HIghway 40 in Davis, CA is home to the Varsity Theatre which features this neon marquee. The theatre was built and showed its first movie on June 9, 1950. In 1990, the Varsity closed down as crowds dwindled and began a life as a performing arts theatre. The Varsity owned by the City is currently used to show independent films. More information can be found here. 09-08
Los Gatos Theatre
Los Gatos, CA Photo courtesy Scott Strickland
Check out the neon marquee for the Los Gatos Theatre, located in the town of Los Gatos near San Jose. 11-09
Rheem Theatre
Moraga, CA Photo courtesy Scott Strickland
The Rheem Theatre is a classic looking theatre in Moraga, CA. The Rheem was built in 1957 as a single screener, then was split into a multiplex of four theatres in the 1990's.
Del Mar Theatre
Varsity Theatre
Los Gatos Theatre
Rheem Theatre
