Hollywood’s Egyptian Theatre Returns!
This week marks the return of the Egyptian Theatre and we couldn’t be happier! The iconic Egyptian Theatre turned 101 this year. Opening in 1922, it was Hollywood’s first major movie palace, and hosted the first-ever red carpet premiere (Robin Hood, 1922).
Robin Hood, 1922
Sid Grauman, mastermind behind this and other famous theatres in and around Hollywood, put on a hell of a show, with ornate prologues featuring live music and dancers before the show (Myrna Loy was famously discovered in the chorus of one of the prologues). A sentry patrolled the roof, and elaborate displays were featured in the courtyard aligning with the theme of whatever film was playing the theatre at the time. For 1924’s The Iron Horse an entire train car was brought into the courtyard.
Locomotive display for The Iron Horse in 1924
Fast forward to 2020 - the Egyptian was purchased by Netflix, and a restoration effort began. After three years and $70 million dollars of investment, we are excited to see the theatre back in action. Here are a few photos from the November 6th press event:
The newly restored Egyptian Theatre, 2023
Notes:
The Egyptian is one of only five theatres in the U.S. that can show nitrate prints.
The balcony is gone, and seating capacity is now just a touch over 500.
The stenciling on the ceilings has been touched up and looks great!
The seats are comfy and while they have a vintage design, there’s plenty of room to walk between aisles to your seat (although you have to lean forward to grab your drink, as the cup holders are attached to the seat in front of you.
The A/C works very well, bring an extra layer if you’re cold-natured.
The restrooms have a gotten a gorgeous, glam glow-up.
The details in the courtyard have been restored and although the palm trees are gone the tile, fountain (now functioning), and murals look stunning.
Concessions have moved to the back right corner of the lobby, and in the center is a display paying tribute to the history of the theatre.
Programming:
M-Th - Netflix
F-Sun - American Cinematheque
I’m happy to report that it looks like this theatre could go another 100 years! Thanks to Netflix and all the other organizations who worked to preserve this Hollywood treasure.