Cinerama Dome, Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
If you are interested in historic theatres, a great place to look around
is Hollywood, California. Home of big name theatres such as Mann's Chinese,
Pacific's Cinerama Dome, and Disney's El Capitan among others, Hollywood
sports both the image and recognition of a city of glitz. Travel down
either Hollywood Boulevard or Sunset Boulevard. You won't be disappointed.
Egyptian Theatre
Los Angeles, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
The fabulous Egyptian Theatre on Hollywood Blvd. is back and
grander than ever! After a brief hiatus in the 1990's, the Egyptian has
been restored and now looks better than ever, thanks to the efforts of
the American Cinematheque, a non-profit cultural arts organization that
now makes this grand theatre its home.
To the right is the Egyptian as it presently stands after the $15 million
restoration project. Below are vintage photos of this 1922 landmark theatre.
Many thanks to the American Cinematheque for permission to use photos
and content of text.
1962 Vintage Photo Photo courtesy American Cinematheque
Egyptian Theatre in 1922 Photo courtesy American Cinematheque
Henry Fonda Theatre
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
A trip down Hollywood Boulevard going east to west first brings you to
the Henry Fonda Theatre. Famous for the actor of the same name,
the Fonda Theatre is home to many local plays. Originally called the Hollywood
Music Box, the newly refurbished theatre has staged many Broadway productions
such as Driving Ms. Daisy and concert acts including Adam Ant and Tori
Amos.
Pantages Theatre
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
A block away and on the North side of Hollywood Boulevard brings you
to the doorstep of the Pantages Theatre. Staging such Broadway
blockbusters like Cats, Les Miserables, and The Phantom of the Opera,
the Pantages is one of the premier venues of performing arts in the Los
Angeles County area. In addition, there are many nice stops for the night
near the Pantages, some only a walk away.
El Capitan Theatre
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
After you travel a few
more blocks west, you will see a large neon sign (surprise) directing
you to the El Capitan Theatre. Currently a showplace all Disney animation
shows and movies, the El Capitan was recently restored.
Great sights to see at the El Capitan include its historic marquee, stage, and of course the incomparable box
office. Surprises await you when you visit the El Capitan, open or closed.
Vogue Theatre
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
Jump down to mid Hollywood Boulevard and you'll encounter more theatres.
One of the minor theatres is the Hollywood Vogue, an old theatre
on Hollywood. Here you can see special performances and other shows of
interest.