Sorry about the wrong ‘AMTD’ related website coming up on your screen folks. It seems that someone else has now snagged our original call letters… Is there no respect for the little people?
Meanwhile, one other personal site is still available: www.josephmusil.com and a link from the building in which we reside: www.santoraarts.com
Should you wish to join our SHOWPLACE NEWSLETTER, please send your e-mail request to:
If not, we’re live and one can always call us at 714-667-6959
An associate friend of mine, who is a professional promoter and owns two theaters, is looking for a classic/historical theater to buy in which to present concerts in San Francisco.
My memory tells me that the Metro was once a vaudeville house so possibly there are dressing rooms etc, still exsisting and what dimensions are the stage. Is there a tower to fly the screen?
Also, will someone please update me with a seating count, in-house operational equipment and a contact name/phone/e-mail for a “$” amount?
Here’s hoping that United Artists/Regal didn’t trash the place when vacating -as is so typical of this cut throat chain of candy merchants.
I say to “the City that knows how…” let’s get the Metro’s lights back on… it’s time to rock ‘n roll!
Films with a good story line, script and acting DON’T need sequels… and when movie-goers STOP paying good money for trash movies, then perhaps the greed of Hollywood will die a hopeful early death… amen!
Yes “JimC,” you are correct in commenting about the varied competence of projectionists. When I went through my apprenticeship training with ABC; Associated British Cinemas in 1955, I wore white cotton gloves to handle any film while being thoroughly supervised by a very strict chief operator. We inspected every foot of film before screening it for sloppy splicing and curtain queue marks!
And, as you said, JimC, cinemas will need twin or more projectors especially for film festivals due to short subjects and/or types of film.
Regarding the greedy film distributors… they hate their stock being spliced for platter systems. Furthermore, they DO inspect every can of film for botched-up returns and WILL place you on their list of bad projectionists if the case is so.
I’ve even heard of fines imposed or vault print rentals costing much more than old copies with a zillion scratchy lines and spots everywhere.
And don’t forget the high cost of reliable shipping BOTH ways -ugh!
The great David Packard (of Hewlett-Packard fame)restored the magnificent STANFORD THEATRE in Palo Alto, California complete with a beautiful Wurlitzer organ. Mr. P personally supervises the operation of his dream theater!
Their “classic” film screenings are to die for. They get vault prints because of their Union projectionist who takes great care of the films and runs them on reel-to-reel twin projectors -non of this lazy platter system!
Why not start an e-mail list of patrons interested in your great idea to keep the cinema running instead of closing! Sorry, I don’t have any website info but GOOD LUCK
Having visited Dunsmuir on several occasions, my wife and I were very much impressed with this charming city. We were kindly afforded a memorable tour of the theater, of which, has remained with us.
Presently living in the greater Los Angeles area, I have run aground in trying to find a theater in which to offer the benefits of my past cinema/theater experiences, both professionally and volunteer in England, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Should owners of the California Theatre contemplate reopening soon, then we are prepared to relocate if anyone wishes to contact me at
The Yost Theatre is presently unoccupied.
I feel that the Mexican/Spanish films screened at the local Teatro on 4th Street should move into the Yost.
This would also be an excellent site for various film festivals.
My wife and I lived in Inglewood during the 1990’s riots and, when it was finally “safe” to go outside, we managed to gain an authorized entry to take photographs.
A very kind lady managed to switch on a few lights for my old Kodak Brownie camera. If only digital cameras were out then I’d have some decent prints… sorry folks
Another possible way to locate this theater is to find out who the movie company was who made “2 Weeks Notice” and/or the film distributor. You might add a possible date of WHEN it played there.
Now these companies really keep records! Good Luck.
If C.T. member lisainLongBeach (Feb ‘04 letter) is still out there, please write to me at as I have several questions for your about the Long Beach Fox. Thank you.
C.T. members may be interested in learning more about the Long Beach Fox and ALL of the L.B. (now gone) theaters…
My dear friend JOSEPH MUSIL was once manager of this beautiful theater and often speaks, most tenderly, about it when giving various theater presentations at his AMERICAN MUSEUM OF THEATRICAL DESIGN, especially the “Farewell Show” he produced.
In all of my six decades of cinema/theater experiences, I have never come across anyone so dedicated to this art. Joe is a living icon regarding consummate knowledge of countless theaters especially in southern California.
Joe’s long-time friend RON MAHAN is currently producing an extravaganza about THE THEATERS OF LONG BEACH with many never-seen-before pictures from Joe Musil’s personal collection.
This will be a reservations only, FUND RAISER program presented with recorded narration and music of the era.
The grand premier is planned for later this year at Mr. Musil’s NON-PROFIT museum; STRAND THEATRE.
The AMTD museum and theater is located in the fabulous 1925 Santora Arts Building in historical downtown SANTA ANA at 207 N. Broadway, and is open for guided tours; for appointments call: 714-667-6959
A new website is presently under construction with a link from www.santoraarts.com info-to-know:
and I’ll gladly add your private name to “Showplace” Newsletter.
In closing, I’ll just add the nicest comment from an overseas visitor from the Theater Historical Society’s 2005 Conclave; “This place gave the best presentation of the entire tour of theaters!”
How I wish someone would recreate your wonderful programming down here in the Orange County-Los Angeles area. We urgently need some new “old blood” to wake us up…NOW!!!
Sorry, I forgot to mention that everything was brought up to safety code and that that included the fire department; they had an extra fire exit installed leading from the auditorium onto a lovely sunny patio -just right for an over-flow reception. Mmmm good!
When the Murray Theatre was occupied by the Unity Church, I was purely involved as a volunteer producer of their productions and mainly for the “theatrics” of the Service.
The building was preserved as to the ability of limited funding as well as generous donations of equipment and supplies needed. Everywhere was completely cleaned and painted. A new HVAC system was also installed.
Both of the side shops were incorporated into use by the theater; one as a complete coffee shop and the other as a book store. The third building was ideal as classrooms complete with restrooms.
The red velvet curtains were in excellent shape but the electric motor needed replacing. But pulling by hand worked just fine! Gone were the footlights due to the stage apron cascading down in tiers of wide steps, thus removing several rows of seats.
I installed all new shelving for the marquee letters plus adding spots and floods to the newly updated stage lighting system. Normal projection had been removed ages ago but the screen was in very good shape along with the huge audio cables which traversed above the false ceiling. The blue and gold Neon surrounding the air ducts worked just fine.
In ending, my question question is “Why hasn’t the owner of the Murray used this venue for concerts, film festivals and stand-up comedy? Users could bring in their own equipment and the rent would keep the lights "ON”. As for almost no parking, I understand there is a huge lot within a block or two.
Let’s get it on boys and girls… and have some fun doing it!
The San Francisco Fox; 5,200 seats (that’s right folks!) was destroyed in the futile name of progress and, a quarter of a century later, many are still crying over their loss and that includes me too!
The same thing ALMOST happened to the Fox in San Diego, but they stood fast and forced the issue to construct the new building OVER the theater. Hence, protected for life in many ways.
I lived in SLC during the 2002 Olympic Games period and noted that the local Mormon business influence is powerful enough to save the UTAH THEATRE. It could be open for overflow events at other downtown auditoriums or programs that would be best suited in that lavish atmosphere, especially film festivals.
The “Lost Memory” photo makes mention of some TLC needed and I fully agree. The only reason the theater is still in operation is mainly due to the guts and determination of owner; Art Proctor -a real gentleman when I worked for him.
Mr. “P” also operates the video rental store next door which helps with the rent but he really needs some VOLUNTEER HELP. I wish I still lived in SLC but have retired to Long Beach, Ca.
We have a similar situation regarding the little Art Theater here. It’s the last remaining single screen house with awful video projection and seating that should have gone down with the Titanic. Another situation is the total arrogance of those working there!
Oh my… if only Willis Johnson were to step in my shoes and spin his magic in southern California… we have dozens of beauties crying for their doors to reopen. Yes?
There are a ton more of ideas I have for you but I don’t want to load this site down too much. If you are still interested, please write to me at my personal e-mail:
Simon Overton in Long Beach, Ca.
Sorry about the wrong ‘AMTD’ related website coming up on your screen folks. It seems that someone else has now snagged our original call letters… Is there no respect for the little people?
Meanwhile, one other personal site is still available: www.josephmusil.com and a link from the building in which we reside: www.santoraarts.com
Should you wish to join our SHOWPLACE NEWSLETTER, please send your e-mail request to:
If not, we’re live and one can always call us at 714-667-6959
Simon Overton -Volunteer Stage Manager
An associate friend of mine, who is a professional promoter and owns two theaters, is looking for a classic/historical theater to buy in which to present concerts in San Francisco.
My memory tells me that the Metro was once a vaudeville house so possibly there are dressing rooms etc, still exsisting and what dimensions are the stage. Is there a tower to fly the screen?
Also, will someone please update me with a seating count, in-house operational equipment and a contact name/phone/e-mail for a “$” amount?
Here’s hoping that United Artists/Regal didn’t trash the place when vacating -as is so typical of this cut throat chain of candy merchants.
I say to “the City that knows how…” let’s get the Metro’s lights back on… it’s time to rock ‘n roll!
Films with a good story line, script and acting DON’T need sequels… and when movie-goers STOP paying good money for trash movies, then perhaps the greed of Hollywood will die a hopeful early death… amen!
Sorry, I do not use “Outlook Express” for e-mailing purposes, hence my response through CT;
The fabulous Egyptian Theatre on the coast in southern Oregon is not open.
The state of California has a good selection, namely the California Theatre in Dunsmuir -close to Oregon.
If you feel like the San Francisco scene, there are more wonderful places listed there than anyone can dream of!
Well done on your choice of restoration decorations -a very pleasant looking environment with a feeling of “welcome to our new show.”
I hope you have lines around the block… keep the fresh popcorn popping and don’t forget to use the curtains -it’s showbusiness!
How true, Jon, how true. It’s always best to order your film well in advance and, after delivery, pre-screen it for any problems.
Is there any hopeful news of a reopening…soon?
I am told that Oakland had 2 Fox theaters; Fox Oakland and Oakland Fox… how confusing.
Will someone please enlighten me on this situation
Yes “JimC,” you are correct in commenting about the varied competence of projectionists. When I went through my apprenticeship training with ABC; Associated British Cinemas in 1955, I wore white cotton gloves to handle any film while being thoroughly supervised by a very strict chief operator. We inspected every foot of film before screening it for sloppy splicing and curtain queue marks!
And, as you said, JimC, cinemas will need twin or more projectors especially for film festivals due to short subjects and/or types of film.
Regarding the greedy film distributors… they hate their stock being spliced for platter systems. Furthermore, they DO inspect every can of film for botched-up returns and WILL place you on their list of bad projectionists if the case is so.
I’ve even heard of fines imposed or vault print rentals costing much more than old copies with a zillion scratchy lines and spots everywhere.
And don’t forget the high cost of reliable shipping BOTH ways -ugh!
The great David Packard (of Hewlett-Packard fame)restored the magnificent STANFORD THEATRE in Palo Alto, California complete with a beautiful Wurlitzer organ. Mr. P personally supervises the operation of his dream theater!
Their “classic” film screenings are to die for. They get vault prints because of their Union projectionist who takes great care of the films and runs them on reel-to-reel twin projectors -non of this lazy platter system!
Why not start an e-mail list of patrons interested in your great idea to keep the cinema running instead of closing! Sorry, I don’t have any website info but GOOD LUCK
Having visited Dunsmuir on several occasions, my wife and I were very much impressed with this charming city. We were kindly afforded a memorable tour of the theater, of which, has remained with us.
Presently living in the greater Los Angeles area, I have run aground in trying to find a theater in which to offer the benefits of my past cinema/theater experiences, both professionally and volunteer in England, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Should owners of the California Theatre contemplate reopening soon, then we are prepared to relocate if anyone wishes to contact me at
The Yost Theatre is presently unoccupied.
I feel that the Mexican/Spanish films screened at the local Teatro on 4th Street should move into the Yost.
This would also be an excellent site for various film festivals.
Why isn’t this place listed with all of the other Fox listings?
My wife and I lived in Inglewood during the 1990’s riots and, when it was finally “safe” to go outside, we managed to gain an authorized entry to take photographs.
A very kind lady managed to switch on a few lights for my old Kodak Brownie camera. If only digital cameras were out then I’d have some decent prints… sorry folks
Another possible way to locate this theater is to find out who the movie company was who made “2 Weeks Notice” and/or the film distributor. You might add a possible date of WHEN it played there.
Now these companies really keep records! Good Luck.
If C.T. member lisainLongBeach (Feb ‘04 letter) is still out there, please write to me at as I have several questions for your about the Long Beach Fox. Thank you.
C.T. members may be interested in learning more about the Long Beach Fox and ALL of the L.B. (now gone) theaters…
My dear friend JOSEPH MUSIL was once manager of this beautiful theater and often speaks, most tenderly, about it when giving various theater presentations at his AMERICAN MUSEUM OF THEATRICAL DESIGN, especially the “Farewell Show” he produced.
In all of my six decades of cinema/theater experiences, I have never come across anyone so dedicated to this art. Joe is a living icon regarding consummate knowledge of countless theaters especially in southern California.
Joe’s long-time friend RON MAHAN is currently producing an extravaganza about THE THEATERS OF LONG BEACH with many never-seen-before pictures from Joe Musil’s personal collection.
This will be a reservations only, FUND RAISER program presented with recorded narration and music of the era.
The grand premier is planned for later this year at Mr. Musil’s NON-PROFIT museum; STRAND THEATRE.
The AMTD museum and theater is located in the fabulous 1925 Santora Arts Building in historical downtown SANTA ANA at 207 N. Broadway, and is open for guided tours; for appointments call: 714-667-6959
A new website is presently under construction with a link from www.santoraarts.com info-to-know:
and I’ll gladly add your private name to “Showplace” Newsletter.
In closing, I’ll just add the nicest comment from an overseas visitor from the Theater Historical Society’s 2005 Conclave; “This place gave the best presentation of the entire tour of theaters!”
How I wish someone would recreate your wonderful programming down here in the Orange County-Los Angeles area. We urgently need some new “old blood” to wake us up…NOW!!!
It would be nice to see some lobby and auditorium photographs; either early historic shots or the present. Pretty pleeeeeeze?
Sorry, I forgot to mention that everything was brought up to safety code and that that included the fire department; they had an extra fire exit installed leading from the auditorium onto a lovely sunny patio -just right for an over-flow reception. Mmmm good!
When the Murray Theatre was occupied by the Unity Church, I was purely involved as a volunteer producer of their productions and mainly for the “theatrics” of the Service.
The building was preserved as to the ability of limited funding as well as generous donations of equipment and supplies needed. Everywhere was completely cleaned and painted. A new HVAC system was also installed.
Both of the side shops were incorporated into use by the theater; one as a complete coffee shop and the other as a book store. The third building was ideal as classrooms complete with restrooms.
The red velvet curtains were in excellent shape but the electric motor needed replacing. But pulling by hand worked just fine! Gone were the footlights due to the stage apron cascading down in tiers of wide steps, thus removing several rows of seats.
I installed all new shelving for the marquee letters plus adding spots and floods to the newly updated stage lighting system. Normal projection had been removed ages ago but the screen was in very good shape along with the huge audio cables which traversed above the false ceiling. The blue and gold Neon surrounding the air ducts worked just fine.
In ending, my question question is “Why hasn’t the owner of the Murray used this venue for concerts, film festivals and stand-up comedy? Users could bring in their own equipment and the rent would keep the lights "ON”. As for almost no parking, I understand there is a huge lot within a block or two.
Let’s get it on boys and girls… and have some fun doing it!
The San Francisco Fox; 5,200 seats (that’s right folks!) was destroyed in the futile name of progress and, a quarter of a century later, many are still crying over their loss and that includes me too!
The same thing ALMOST happened to the Fox in San Diego, but they stood fast and forced the issue to construct the new building OVER the theater. Hence, protected for life in many ways.
I lived in SLC during the 2002 Olympic Games period and noted that the local Mormon business influence is powerful enough to save the UTAH THEATRE. It could be open for overflow events at other downtown auditoriums or programs that would be best suited in that lavish atmosphere, especially film festivals.
The “Lost Memory” photo makes mention of some TLC needed and I fully agree. The only reason the theater is still in operation is mainly due to the guts and determination of owner; Art Proctor -a real gentleman when I worked for him.
Mr. “P” also operates the video rental store next door which helps with the rent but he really needs some VOLUNTEER HELP. I wish I still lived in SLC but have retired to Long Beach, Ca.
We have a similar situation regarding the little Art Theater here. It’s the last remaining single screen house with awful video projection and seating that should have gone down with the Titanic. Another situation is the total arrogance of those working there!
Oh my… if only Willis Johnson were to step in my shoes and spin his magic in southern California… we have dozens of beauties crying for their doors to reopen. Yes?
Hi Chelsea:
There are a ton more of ideas I have for you but I don’t want to load this site down too much. If you are still interested, please write to me at my personal e-mail:
Simon Overton in Long Beach, Ca.