GREAT THINGS ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES THEATRE
Los Angeles, dubbed as the City of Angels, is truly a magnificent destination that holds some of the most beautiful architectural buildings in the world. One of the biggest attractions in LA is most assuredly The Los Angeles Theatre and its rich history. This luxurious spot hosts some of the biggest Broadway shows, and based on its upsurging popularity and renovations of classic Broadway-styled houses in downtown, it promises to have a strong future in the years to come. Some of the most historic Broadway shows have been seen here — dating back as far as 1930. Now, over 70 years later, we look at what some of the greatest features are and what is most loved about the Los Angeles Theatre.
A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE HISTORY OF THE THEATRE
Theatre architect S. Charles Lee had both a vision and the means to turn a dream into a flamboyant reality. Among his many achievements in LA, including the Tower Theatre (1927), which was just purchased by Apple — is one of the greatest theatres in the country: The Los Angeles Theatre. Constructed in 1930/31, the 50-foot ceiling sports the most extravagant chandeliers, the interior a stairway to heaven, and a grand floor which could accommodate 2000 patrons as they awaited the next show; it became LA’s main attraction and remains as such till this day. The idea was to go bigger and better than any theatre born before then. The entirety of the building took $1.5 million and only 6 months to build, which is legendary enough in itself. (Charlie Chaplin helped fund the completion so that it would be ready to open with the premiere of his film City Lights in January 1931.)
Apart from the majestic appeal the theatre held upon its development, and even today, it was also the most technically advanced for its time. This included the lighting elements and the projection equipment, creating a show like no one had seen before.
PRODUCTION AT THE LOS ANGELES THEATRE
Some of the best productions have been staged at the Los Angeles Theatre. These shows include Broadway musicals, world premieres, and famous actors — plays and films which took the world by storm on a nightly basis. In order to hold thousands of visitors each night, the Los Angeles Theatre holds a few hidden gems that are absolutely adored by both regulars and tourists.
Below are some of the main attractions and the most loved aspects of the theatre.
THE AUDITORIUM
The main attraction and one of the greatest things about the theatre is most assuredly the Auditorium which is quite similar to what you can expect at the best casino shows at Las Vegas amidst all the gambling, dealers and live gaming action. This is where the magic happens and where guests are seated to play witness to one of the most beautiful shows about to unfold. The opera-style theatre provides hues of rich gold’s and velvet reds, a sight from straight out of televised movies.
THE BALLROOM
The Ballroom is decorated as anyone would imagine a ballroom ought to be. Glass ceilings are complimented by dark mahogany, dimmed lighting and a sophisticated sheen can be admired throughout.
THE LADIES ROOM
The most elegant and intimate part of the theatre lies nestled within the design of the ladies room. A private area for women to powder their noses and pinch their cheeks, the ladies room is one gem anyone would be privileged to visit.
THE MEN’S ROOM
Just as the ladies room, the gentlemen also have their private sanctuary which can be appreciated from any angle within the room. Private cubicles have been designed to allow for privacy while there are velvet benches for the gentlemen waiting their turn.
OTHER SECRET ROOMS
The rooms are not secret as such but are more of a hidden space within the walls of the theatre. The Los Angeles Theatre knows no limits as it hides within its walls other rooms such as the lobby, the stage, support spaces, retail areas and a magnificent exterior which can be admired from afar.
LOS ANGELES THEATRE IN THE PRESENT DAY
Today the theatre is mostly used in films, commercials and even advertisements. Broadway shows are also held at the theatre, but the building is more of a historic icon rather left for the use of high paying patrons. Tourists across the world come to admire its elegance and beauty and remains one of the greatest things about the City of Angels.
photos from LosAngelesTheatre.com