Bethany Theatre

bjohn on January 15, 2004 at 5:12 pm

I was told that the Bethany was closed because it developed serious structural damage from the “Surround Sound” system that was installed there in the late 70s. I hope someone comes up with a picture of this theater, it was my favorite cinema growing up in Phoenix in the 60s and 70s. Seeing “2001” there was an unforgettable experience.

Sbilly69 on October 14, 2003 at 10:08 pm

This message is for Charlene, who wanted to know the location of the Bethany theater in Phoenix, AZ., and also applies to anyone else wanting to know the location of this theater.

I remember this theater well, and do remember that it was closed for many years with, as the article says, with a message on the marquee claiming to be closed for renovations before being demolished, as I passed by on occasion. Being used to seeing this theater there, on one trip passing by the theater I was shocked, as it wasn’t there anymore! It seemed that just overnight it was GONE, just a vacant lot!!! It happened so fast!

I beleive that the Bethany theater was on Bethany Home Road in Phoenix, AZ on the north side of Bethany Home Road, just east of Interstate 17. Great place for a theater, with freeway access! I wonder why they closed and demolished the building? There is a shopping center on the site of the Bethany theater. Charlene, why don’t you E-mail me at Do you live in Phoenix, AZ?