Imperial Theatre
319 E. Ocean Boulevard,
Long Beach,
CA
90802
319 E. Ocean Boulevard,
Long Beach,
CA
90802
4 people
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The largest repository of information/photos of theatres in the USA is the Theatre Historical Society of America, which has files on some 15,000 theatres and some 50,000 images, artifacts, and drawings. Contact them through their web site at: www.HistoricTheatres.org
The Imperial Theatre was built in the late 1920’s. I have an listing for it as early as 1929.
Since the Imperial Theatre was part of the Fox chain. The theatre may have been given the Skouras Treatment during the 40’s. Which was to remodel or modernize theatres with golden plaster curls and swirls in the lobbies and auditoriums. Along with that treatment theatres also got re-seated with new seats and carpet and marquees. Sometime during this theatres lost original murals and light fixtures.
If you are interested in theatre decorating. You might look for information on Anthony Heinsbergen Sr. & Jr.. Jr. just passed away recently. But they had a company in Los Angeles called “Heinsbergen Decorating Company” located at 7415 Beverly Blvd.. Sr. & Jr. designed and decorated around 400 theatres and buildings area the US.
They had many mural artist that worked for their company.
Thanks for all your responses. We have a watercolor from the artist who may have done the art/murals at the Imperial Theater. On the back it it says “Imperial Theater, Long Beach”. So I am trying to find more information. The artists that did murals at early theaters were so fantastic and talented. I would love to know more.
Susan
the beautiful Imperial probaly the best looking interior theatre in L.B., It' was art deco with alot of swirls and silver I saw many films there including “The poseidon adventure” in the lobby they decorated by putting chairs on the ceiling. It was a great theatre.
this is for susan selvey…I think I get obtain some info on the place…you might try the historical society of Long Beach at 562…492-1510…Jennifer Stevens is a great person and might be able to help you//I’ll look through my stuff
I would like more information about the Imperial Theater. When was it built? Was it an old deco house? Did it have murals? paintings? I am looking for an artist that may have done some work at the theater. Possibly poster work. I need info asap.
Thanks,
S. Selvey
The Fox Imperial Theatre was located at 319 E. Ocean Ave..