The 69th Street Movie Theater: A Walk-Through History

The 69th Street Movie Theater is a historic landmark in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York City. It was built in 1914 and designed by architect Thomas W. Lamb. The theater was originally a vaudeville house, but it was converted to a movie theater in the 1920s.

Early Years

In the early years, the 69th Street Movie Theater was a popular venue for vaudeville acts. Some of the most famous performers of the day, including Harry Houdini, Will Rogers, and Charlie Chaplin, performed on the theater's stage.

In the 1920s, the theater was converted to a movie theater. It was one of the first theaters in New York City to show talkies, and it quickly became a popular destination for moviegoers.

The Golden Age

The 1930s and 1940s were the golden age of the 69th Street Movie Theater. During this time, the theater hosted premieres of some of the most iconic films of all time, including Gone with the Wind (1939), Casablanca (1942), and Citizen Kane (1941).

The theater also became a popular spot for celebrities. Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, and Katharine Hepburn were just a few of the stars who frequented the 69th Street Movie Theater during this time.

Decline and Rebirth

The 1950s and 1960s saw a decline in the popularity of the 69th Street Movie Theater. With the rise of television and the decline of the movie industry, the theater began to lose money.

In the 1970s, the theater was closed for several years. However, in the 1980s, it was reopened as a non-profit movie theater. The theater has since been restored to its former glory and is now a popular destination for moviegoers once again.

Today

Today, the 69th Street Movie Theater is a thriving non-profit movie theater. It shows a variety of films, from classic movies to independent films. The theater also hosts special events, such as film festivals and Q&As with filmmakers.

The 69th Street Movie Theater is a beloved landmark in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. It is a reminder of the golden age of Hollywood and a testament to the power of cinema.

How to Visit the 69th Street Movie Theater

The 69th Street Movie Theater is located at 332 E 69th St, New York, NY 10021. The theater is open seven days a week. Ticket prices vary depending on the film and the time of day.

Getting There

The 69th Street Movie Theater is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest subway stations are the 69th Street-Lexington Avenue station on the 6 line and the 72nd Street station on the 1, 2, and 3 lines.

Parking

There is limited street parking available near the theater. However, there are several parking garages located within a short walk of the theater.

Accessibility

The 69th Street Movie Theater is wheelchair accessible. The theater also has a hearing loop system for people with hearing impairments.

Tables

Table 1: Ticket Prices

Table 2: Special Events

Table 3: Amenities

Table 4: Theater History