One Screen Wonder – Taking In a Movie At the Art Theatre of Long Beach
Yesterday I decided to take in a show but instead of traveling to my local multiplex I tried something different. I went to a single screen theatre. Shocker, I know. Single screen theatres are on the verge of extinction but there are some left and the Art Theatre of Long Beach is a gem amongst these.
Located on 4th Street in the heart of “Retro Row” the Art Theatre is a historic movie house. It was built in 1924 and underwent a couple of name changes before becoming the Art Theatre in 1947. In 2008 the theatre was restored and currently screens current releases. Perhaps as a nod to its name, The Art Theatre shows many independent films and often holds special screenings. Want to see a live stream of the Metropolitan Opera or catch a midnight showing of The Rocky Horror Show? The Art Theatre is your place.
Yesterday, I went to catch a matinee and was happy to find that the ticket price was only $7 (sheesh, I remember when that was expensive!). I went inside and came upon a beautiful interior.
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| from The Art Theatre website |
You can’t really see it in the above pic but there are art deco columns lining the walls. And though the seats are an older style they are newly upholstered and really comfortable. And it was so clean inside. No mystery spills or funky smells anywhere.
The Art Theatre is a fantastic place to catch a film. I know I’ll be back soon.
The Art Theatre of Long Beach
2025 East 4th Street
Long Beach, CA 90804
public parking lot is on the corner of 4th and Cherry, 50 cents an hour, 3 hour limit