Hiway Theatre

Built in 1913 this was originally known as the Jenkintown Auditorium and was designed by architect Albert F. Schenck. In 1925 the theatre was remodeled by Philadelphia architect William H. Lee, it was outfitted to show silent films and renamed the Embassy Theatre.

In 1936, both the exterior and interior was remodeled to the plans of architect William E. Groben and it was renamed the York Road Theatre, with a seating capacity given as 600. In 1940, it had new owners and was renamed the Hiway Theatre. By 1950, the seating capacity had been slightly reduced to 540.

In 1985, Irwin Merlin purchased the Hiway Theatre. He renamed it Merlin Theatre in 1988, when he remodeled the theatre. In 1999, Philadelphia attorney Charles Peruto Jr. purchased the theatre and renamed it after his son, the Chas III Theatre.

In 2003 it was purchased by local residents whose sole purpose was to preserve and protect this historic structure. It now operates as a non-profit showing first run, independent and foreign films.

Since November of 2003, the theatre has once again been known as the Hiway Theatre. About two million dollars worth of renovations and restorations were completed in 2006, which reduced the seating capacity in the auditorium from 540 down to 330. On December 27, 2011, a 19 foot tall replica Art Morderne style vertical sign was installed, having been made by Bartush Signs. Replacing the original vertical sign that was in place from 1940 until the 1980’s, the new neon tower is burgundy with yellow letters, antique gold neon, and aluminium trim.

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