MILLION DOLLAR THEATRE
307 S. Broadway
Drenched in the Churrigueresque ornamentation common to
18th-century Mexican cathedrals, the Million Dollar Theater gives
the impression of an elaborate house of worship. Thickly sculpted,
oversized terra cotta medallions, swags, columns and a huge
scalloped arch characterize the faηade. Where saints and cherubs
would reign on churches, sit whimsical images of the Wild West, like
Bison heads, Texas longhorn skulls, allegorical figures of the arts
and a frolicking girl who dangles her leg over the doorway. Within,
a dark richly carved coffered ceiling, magnificent and intricate
organ grilles and dramatic proscenium engulf the auditorium and
arouse awe.
After some corrective renovation work, the theater will be
available for live performance and entertainment, filming, weddings,
business meetings, religious services, graduations, fashion shows
and special events. Most recently occupied by a church, it
incorporates some technical improvements, but has not been
comprehensively renovated. Users will want the support of a rental
technical package and creativity in adapting events to the space.
Performance
Features:
· Seating capacity: 2,100 (Orchestra:1,200;
Balcony: 900)
· Stage dimensions: 40' x 35'
· Film projection
capabilities: 35 mm projector
· Dressing rooms: 6, located on 3
levels
· Parking available in a 500-space garage behind the theater
and in lots across 3rd Street (approx. 200 spaces)
History: Impresario Sid Grauman's famed chain of movie theaters
began with the operation of the Million Dollar, reputedly named for
the combined value of its land, theatre and office building. Opened
in 1918, Grauman offered movie-goers an innovation called the
prologue-a live costumed stage review presented prior to the feature
film. Often the prologues centered on a theme similar to the film or
included live appearances by film stars, such as Gloria Swanson,
Rudolph Valentino and the young Judy Garland. In the 40s, the live
entertainment evolved to include famous jazz and big band acts such
as Billie Holiday, Artie Shaw, and Lionel Hampton. As early as the
1950s, the Million Dollar became the first theater on Broadway to
feature Spanish-language variety shows, including headline acts from
Mexico City.
Direct Contact:
Francine Lipsman, Yellin Company, 213-626-1893