I was hoping someone would submit this theatre. I saw the inside of it once after it had closed. The last event to take place at the theatre was a Linda Ronstadt concert or if not the last event it was at least the last time the marquee was changed. I’m guessing this was the late seventies or very early eighties. When Linda’s name was still on the marquee, I managed to get a side exit door open and looked around. Seating capacity, memory tells me, was well over 2000. The theatre had not been cleaned after the Ronstadt concert and the floor was a sea of popcorn boxes and drink cups. While poking around I tried to imagine Linda belting out “Carmelita”. I wish I’d been there.
I hope someone will contribute some more details about the theatre. I, of course, can’t find any of my notes. I do remember, however, that someone told me the theatre was made up of two smaller theatres. Years later, however, someone told me this was not true. Anyone know the real story?
Hi JBCDC, I was in the Tiffin many times during the early 60’s and saw many of those awful Elvis movies (Elvis even hated making most of them) there. I can’t remember much of the interior so if you could jog my memory it’d be wonderful. I know it was closed a number of years before it was demoslished, do you know the dates? Do you have any interior or exterior photos of the theatre? If so please let me know and I’ll post my email address. I’m in the process of setting up a links for all the theatres for which I have pictures. I know many would enjoy seeing the Tiffin again. It’s begining to look as if Cinema Treasures photo submissions is a thing of the past.
I believe this Paramount has been torn down. While touring the Loew’s Jersey Theatre three or four years ago, I talked to a staff member about a “lost Paramount” I saw 20 years ago but couldn’t remember where. He told me about a Paramount in Plainfield which had recently been torn down. Anyway, it was not the Paramount I am trying to find again. I’m hoping one of the Cinema Treasure fans can help me. The new owner at that time (approx 23 years ago) told me this particular Paramount was the second to last Paramount built and the theatre had no balcony. I believe the theatre was in New Jersey or possibly one of the New England states. It’s marquee was identical in style to the Paramount in Peekskill.
I saw the inside of the Tivoli about 20 years ago and was very impressed. It certainly exudes spaciousness and palatialness well beyond a 1000+ seat theatre. If you live in Chicago, it’s definitely worth the short drive to Downers Grove to see this gem.
While driving through Cleveland in 1979 or 1980(?], I was tuning the car radio around trying to find the station broadcasting the Blue Jays & Indians game. Someone on a talk radio station mentioned about a theatre being demolished so I listened more. They talked about its immense size and elevator. I was, of course, intrigued and went to the site of the “Hipp” as it read on the marquee. The theatre was huge and yes it did have an elevator. Even the 5000 seat Uptown in Chicago lacked an elevator. Workman were removing things but the theatre was still intact the day I saw it. I’d guess seating capacity at 3000+ but soon someone will supply the exact number.
A year or two later I returned to Cleveland to look at two of the remaining downtown theatres. I asked the manager at one of them why the Hipp wasn’t able to be saved. His reply, “It was too far from the theatre district”. Yeah, like two theatres make up a theatre district. One of these two theatres was actually more night club than theatre so this logic seemed a little cockeyed to me.
I got an extensive tour of the the Paramount on May 14, 2004. Later that evening I returned and saw the movie “Troy” in the main auditorium. The loveseats, huge screen, and mostly original auditorium all combined to make it an enjoyable movie experience. “Troy” was pretty good too. I noticed no sound from the other screening rooms so perhaps they’ve corrected this problem.
If you plan to visit the Paramount and also take in a movie, do definitely choose the movie in the main auditorium. I was told at another theater by an employee that the projector for the Paramount’s store front auditorium is actually not in that auditorium. It seems there wasn’t enough room in this tiny space for the forty seats and the projector. Memory tells me it is the ceiling and projected onto the screen with the assistance of two mirrors.
I’ll always have fond memories of the Paramount. In 1980, I released a oldies compilation ablum and I wanted a picture of a Paramount theatre on the album’s cover. After having the marquee set up with all the various artists names, the photographer informed me that to get the best “shot” he’d have to be in the middle of the river. I guess someone overheard us talking because 30 minutes later the Aurora Fire Dept. arrived and my photographer was wisked away in a basket and extended over the river.
Thanks again Aurora Fire Dept. and the Paramount staff.
One reason why this theatre is successful is because of its “army” of dedicated volunteers. I’m not sure if there’s a paid member on staff but you’d never know there wasn’t. Everyone is professional, knowledgeable, courteous, and exhudes pride in being part of the Ritz success story. I had the pleasure of seeing this theatre and Art Garfunkel on May 15, 2004. I’d estimate 1150 to 1200 of the Ritz’s 1400 seats were occupied. Joe, many thanks for the nearly two hour tour — the Ritz is lucky to have such a dedicated volunteer.
Much of the millions spent on the Ritz were for mechanics so you can still see some water damaged areas and other asthetics which have not yet been dealt with. The Ritz still has projectors and uses the old carbon arc system. They’re ready to roll anytime needed but with a new stadium style seating 8 plex being built (ready to open in June) in Tiffin, I doubt the Ritz will show any more movies.
Tiffin is a wonderful small city with two post secondary schools, lots of good restaurants, and an interesting downtown area. To boot, it’s within an easy drive of five other small cities all of which also have nice theatres.
The Patio was part of the Mitchell Bros. chain which owned a minimum of seven or eight theatres in the city of Chicago. Maybe more but I know of only this number. Alex, the current owner, acquired the Patio theatre complex at a tax sale in 1986. He re-opened the theatre in October 1987 and closed it in August 2001. Other than the fact Alex is now 77 and would enjoy some leisure time, there were other reasons why he closed the Patio. I think all of the problems could be overcome. There were no building code violations involved with the theatre’s closure.
I promised Alex I would not list his telephone on Cinema Treasures because he was worried the curious and passionate theatre enthusiasts would be constantly telephoning. So here’s the deal, the interested (not the curious) email me and I’ll forward your number to Alex.
If you have no idea what it would cost to heat and cool a theatre that seats 1500, research this first before you email me. Investigate all the licenses that are required—the latest on the list is the P.P.A. (Place of Public Amusement). This one alone will run you $1500 yearly.
No one more than I would love to see the Patio re-opened so let’s hear from all of you with deep pockets or good credit and excellent motivational skills. The later needed to get support from city politicians, neighborhood residents, and the many vounteers you’ll need to make it viable. My email address is
The Palace is fine example of Eberson’s talents. I had the pleasure of seeing this theatre on May 15, 2004 along with several other Ohio treasures. Immediately upon entering the auditorium you know you’ve left reality behind. While a movie certainly would enhance escapism, I’d almost be satisified just to sit in a seat and look at the theatre for 30 minutes. Then, I suppose I’d want a movie.
I saw the Drifters, Coasters, and the Platters at the Palace and it’s a great place to see a concert. It’s extreme width but short depth allows everyone close proximity to the stage.
Marion is the popcorn capitol of the U.S. so it flows readily — even during concerts.
I finally saw the inside of the Rockne for the first time on May 23,2004. The Rev. A.J. Griffin, I felt, found it difficult to believe anyone could be interested in old theatres but he eventually tried to understand my passion. The inside of the Rockne today looks nothing like a movie theatre. The seats have been removed and church pews installed. A lowered false ceiling completely hides the balcony. I believe a false wall was installed along one side of the auditorium. The wall separates the church kitchen from the sanctuary. The Rockne showed its last movie in 1979 and remained vacant until taken over by the church in 1985.
I had the pleasure of seeing the inside of the Avalon when it was The Miracle Temple Church. I would guess it was in around 1980, and on a Palm Sunday. The then church was nearly full and although my wife and I were the the only non blacks in attendance, the congregation made us feel extremely welcome. I revisited the theatre on May 23, 2004, only to find it completly boarded up and displaying a for sale sign. Anyone interested? The phone number is 773 721-9640.
One of the few northside B&K theatres in which I never saw a movie, but about ten years ago I saw the inside and it’s a typical spectacular B&K movie palace. Unfortuately the marquee and huge vertical have been removed but the auditorium and lobby remain intact. The staff were very friendly and let me look around even though nothing was scheduled that day. The Gateway is definitely worth a visit and probably in the best shape of any of the former B&K theatres in Chicago except for perhaps the Chicago theatre
Sheer luck got me inside this theatre. Some people were rehearsing for a performance on Saturday May 15, 2004, so I walked inside. A lovely art deco theatre with a nice balcony and a seating capacity of about 1200. The theatre was built in 1938. The art deco chandalier in the foyer area is very impressive. Although some staff members were present during my self tour, most seemed to know very little about this lovely theatre which makes their employment and their productions possible.
I just saw this theatre on May l6, 2004. The funding for the restoration came from city funds. Much of the restoration monies were spent to widen the theatre to provide access to the additional multi-functional facilty built behind the theatre. The addition can be used for a variety of functions including movies. A removable platform which is used when movies are shown provides stadium style seating for 100. When the platform is removed the floor is level and options are unlimited. A wedding reception has already been booked for September.
The theatre was formerly owned by Great Easten Theatres ( they also own the Paramount in Fremont, Ohio) who operated the theatre until 1996. It stood empty from then until its grand opening on May 8, 2004.
The lobby, exterior and the marquee were all beautifully restored and while the auditorium is nice, there’s not a lot of visable features to remind you you’re in a 55 year old theatre. The walls have all been covered with pleated sound curtains. The six or seven beautiful deco sconces on each side of the auditorium, however, help to beautify the uninspiring sound curtains.
The Maumee has a chance of survival because of the city ownership. The 12 screen multiplex a mile down the road would, unfortuantely, make private ownership impossible. Not too many miles down the road from the first multiplex is an even bigger multiplex.
Yes, It’s true the Music Hall is open again. I talked to a staff member who informed me the theatre re-opened about 5 weeks ago. It’s still part of the Festival group. Closure was due to the ceiling being in need of some major repair. Anyway, the repairs have been completed and Toronto’s largest single screen theatre is back in operation. Unlike the Bloor these owners didn’t wait for the ceiling actually fall.
If any of the theatre enthusiasts decide to visit the Music Hall, arrive in the area hungry. The theatre is located in the heart of Toronto’s Greek Town which is loaded with many terrific restaurants.
I saw this theatre as well as the other two theatres operated by BCRAC all in the same weekend about 4 years ago. Saw movies in two of them. The Sayre (click on the above web site for pictures of all three) is the largest and most impressive of the three. Someday soon I’ll submit some details.
I tried to see the inside of the Oak during a visit to Chicago during the early 1980’s. Unfortunately, the ticket person wouldn’t let me inside without purchasing a ticket even though I assured him I’d be only five minutes and was only interested in seeing the theatre. I then asked if I could just see the foyer area. This request was also met with a “No tickie, no lookie.” I finally asked if I bought a ticket would I be able to see any of the theatre’s architecture while the movie was showing. He informed me it was very dark and that I probably wouldn’t see anything. I gave up and never did get to see the inside of the Oak before its demolition.
I remember there was a great old fashioned ice cream parlour less than a block away. Anyone know if it’s still there?
I first saw this theatre’s exterior a few years ago and again drove by it in April, 2004. I got all excited that I’d finally see the inside of the theatre because according to the marquee a Sunday matinee was playing. No such luck, either the matinee had just finished or no one showed up and the matinee was cancelled. I can, however, state that the exterior looks exactly like the picture. If the inside is as nice as the outside, it will definitely be worth another try to see the inside.
One of the additional joys of visiting theatres is meeting the owners or managers. Without fail, they have many colorful and amusing tales to pass along. I’ll share this one with you.
When the Mattla’s took over the theatre they “inherited” an elderly very hard of hearing gentleman who serviced the candy counter. Before the Mattla’s recently enclosed the auditorium, there was simply a half wall between the candy counter and the auditorium. It seemed when “little Johnny or Billy” took too long choosing a candy selection, the elderly gentleman would bellow out, “What Do You Want” This famous line, “What Do You Want” was heard many times throughout every movie. I’m not sure if this line was appropiate dialogue in all the situations in the movie, but I’ll bet many time it fit well.
The story was a source of amusement for me and no doubt many of the patrons. I wonder if the patron bet each other who was at the candy couter when, What Do You Want" roared through the auditorium.
My memory could be wrong but when I talked to the owner of the Riviera in the l980’s, I believe he said the chandelier came from the Shea’s Bailey Theatre. If I wrong, please let me know.
The last time I was in the Riviera was 1980, they’d have an organ recital and then show a movie— all for $2.00. I was smoking in those days and I remember you could smoke in the balcony. In the early eighties comedy clubs abounded everywhere, and the Riviera started having a movie and a comic routine on the same bill.
I passed by the Riviera about 6 months ago and “she” still put forth an impressive exterior
The first time I was in the Music Box was 1961 when I saw “A Rasin In The Sun”. As a young person I was never impressed by the Music Box, but remember, this is Chicago which had neighborhood theatres of 5000 seats (The Uptown) and many neighborhood theatres that sat over 3000. I also found its open vertical like the Covent theatre looking rather unfinished.
However since 1961, I’ve been in a lot of mega-plexes and in comparison The Music Box looks great. I re-visited The Music Box about 15 years ago and it looked terrific. Although I’m still not fond of its open vertical and it’s lack of a balcony, I wish I owned it.
In 196l, The Southport area was certainly not prime Chicago real estate but luckily the neighborhood started to become trendy and The Music Box sucessfully re-opened.
Ah! if we could only predict real estate trends we all be wealthy and own prospering theatres.
Until its re-opening, The Music Box was never a first run house. All major releases premiered at downtown theatres (there were a few exceptions like “B” horror films) and then went to 2nd run movie palaces like the Uptown, Century, Gateway, and other 2000+ seat theatres. Along with the “A” film previously released downtown you got to see a “B” film for one admission. Smaller neighborhood independant theatres like the Music Box got films after they played at the large neighborhood houses for one to two weeks.
I was hoping someone would submit this theatre. I saw the inside of it once after it had closed. The last event to take place at the theatre was a Linda Ronstadt concert or if not the last event it was at least the last time the marquee was changed. I’m guessing this was the late seventies or very early eighties. When Linda’s name was still on the marquee, I managed to get a side exit door open and looked around. Seating capacity, memory tells me, was well over 2000. The theatre had not been cleaned after the Ronstadt concert and the floor was a sea of popcorn boxes and drink cups. While poking around I tried to imagine Linda belting out “Carmelita”. I wish I’d been there.
I hope someone will contribute some more details about the theatre. I, of course, can’t find any of my notes. I do remember, however, that someone told me the theatre was made up of two smaller theatres. Years later, however, someone told me this was not true. Anyone know the real story?
Hi JBCDC, I was in the Tiffin many times during the early 60’s and saw many of those awful Elvis movies (Elvis even hated making most of them) there. I can’t remember much of the interior so if you could jog my memory it’d be wonderful. I know it was closed a number of years before it was demoslished, do you know the dates? Do you have any interior or exterior photos of the theatre? If so please let me know and I’ll post my email address. I’m in the process of setting up a links for all the theatres for which I have pictures. I know many would enjoy seeing the Tiffin again. It’s begining to look as if Cinema Treasures photo submissions is a thing of the past.
I believe this Paramount has been torn down. While touring the Loew’s Jersey Theatre three or four years ago, I talked to a staff member about a “lost Paramount” I saw 20 years ago but couldn’t remember where. He told me about a Paramount in Plainfield which had recently been torn down. Anyway, it was not the Paramount I am trying to find again. I’m hoping one of the Cinema Treasure fans can help me. The new owner at that time (approx 23 years ago) told me this particular Paramount was the second to last Paramount built and the theatre had no balcony. I believe the theatre was in New Jersey or possibly one of the New England states. It’s marquee was identical in style to the Paramount in Peekskill.
I saw the inside of the Tivoli about 20 years ago and was very impressed. It certainly exudes spaciousness and palatialness well beyond a 1000+ seat theatre. If you live in Chicago, it’s definitely worth the short drive to Downers Grove to see this gem.
While driving through Cleveland in 1979 or 1980(?], I was tuning the car radio around trying to find the station broadcasting the Blue Jays & Indians game. Someone on a talk radio station mentioned about a theatre being demolished so I listened more. They talked about its immense size and elevator. I was, of course, intrigued and went to the site of the “Hipp” as it read on the marquee. The theatre was huge and yes it did have an elevator. Even the 5000 seat Uptown in Chicago lacked an elevator. Workman were removing things but the theatre was still intact the day I saw it. I’d guess seating capacity at 3000+ but soon someone will supply the exact number.
A year or two later I returned to Cleveland to look at two of the remaining downtown theatres. I asked the manager at one of them why the Hipp wasn’t able to be saved. His reply, “It was too far from the theatre district”. Yeah, like two theatres make up a theatre district. One of these two theatres was actually more night club than theatre so this logic seemed a little cockeyed to me.
I got an extensive tour of the the Paramount on May 14, 2004. Later that evening I returned and saw the movie “Troy” in the main auditorium. The loveseats, huge screen, and mostly original auditorium all combined to make it an enjoyable movie experience. “Troy” was pretty good too. I noticed no sound from the other screening rooms so perhaps they’ve corrected this problem.
If you plan to visit the Paramount and also take in a movie, do definitely choose the movie in the main auditorium. I was told at another theater by an employee that the projector for the Paramount’s store front auditorium is actually not in that auditorium. It seems there wasn’t enough room in this tiny space for the forty seats and the projector. Memory tells me it is the ceiling and projected onto the screen with the assistance of two mirrors.
I’ll always have fond memories of the Paramount. In 1980, I released a oldies compilation ablum and I wanted a picture of a Paramount theatre on the album’s cover. After having the marquee set up with all the various artists names, the photographer informed me that to get the best “shot” he’d have to be in the middle of the river. I guess someone overheard us talking because 30 minutes later the Aurora Fire Dept. arrived and my photographer was wisked away in a basket and extended over the river.
Thanks again Aurora Fire Dept. and the Paramount staff.
One reason why this theatre is successful is because of its “army” of dedicated volunteers. I’m not sure if there’s a paid member on staff but you’d never know there wasn’t. Everyone is professional, knowledgeable, courteous, and exhudes pride in being part of the Ritz success story. I had the pleasure of seeing this theatre and Art Garfunkel on May 15, 2004. I’d estimate 1150 to 1200 of the Ritz’s 1400 seats were occupied. Joe, many thanks for the nearly two hour tour — the Ritz is lucky to have such a dedicated volunteer.
Much of the millions spent on the Ritz were for mechanics so you can still see some water damaged areas and other asthetics which have not yet been dealt with. The Ritz still has projectors and uses the old carbon arc system. They’re ready to roll anytime needed but with a new stadium style seating 8 plex being built (ready to open in June) in Tiffin, I doubt the Ritz will show any more movies.
Tiffin is a wonderful small city with two post secondary schools, lots of good restaurants, and an interesting downtown area. To boot, it’s within an easy drive of five other small cities all of which also have nice theatres.
The Patio was part of the Mitchell Bros. chain which owned a minimum of seven or eight theatres in the city of Chicago. Maybe more but I know of only this number. Alex, the current owner, acquired the Patio theatre complex at a tax sale in 1986. He re-opened the theatre in October 1987 and closed it in August 2001. Other than the fact Alex is now 77 and would enjoy some leisure time, there were other reasons why he closed the Patio. I think all of the problems could be overcome. There were no building code violations involved with the theatre’s closure.
I promised Alex I would not list his telephone on Cinema Treasures because he was worried the curious and passionate theatre enthusiasts would be constantly telephoning. So here’s the deal, the interested (not the curious) email me and I’ll forward your number to Alex.
If you have no idea what it would cost to heat and cool a theatre that seats 1500, research this first before you email me. Investigate all the licenses that are required—the latest on the list is the P.P.A. (Place of Public Amusement). This one alone will run you $1500 yearly.
No one more than I would love to see the Patio re-opened so let’s hear from all of you with deep pockets or good credit and excellent motivational skills. The later needed to get support from city politicians, neighborhood residents, and the many vounteers you’ll need to make it viable. My email address is
The Palace is fine example of Eberson’s talents. I had the pleasure of seeing this theatre on May 15, 2004 along with several other Ohio treasures. Immediately upon entering the auditorium you know you’ve left reality behind. While a movie certainly would enhance escapism, I’d almost be satisified just to sit in a seat and look at the theatre for 30 minutes. Then, I suppose I’d want a movie.
I saw the Drifters, Coasters, and the Platters at the Palace and it’s a great place to see a concert. It’s extreme width but short depth allows everyone close proximity to the stage.
Marion is the popcorn capitol of the U.S. so it flows readily — even during concerts.
Yes, the Patio is definitely for lease and I’ll add information within one or two days.
I finally saw the inside of the Rockne for the first time on May 23,2004. The Rev. A.J. Griffin, I felt, found it difficult to believe anyone could be interested in old theatres but he eventually tried to understand my passion. The inside of the Rockne today looks nothing like a movie theatre. The seats have been removed and church pews installed. A lowered false ceiling completely hides the balcony. I believe a false wall was installed along one side of the auditorium. The wall separates the church kitchen from the sanctuary. The Rockne showed its last movie in 1979 and remained vacant until taken over by the church in 1985.
I had the pleasure of seeing the inside of the Avalon when it was The Miracle Temple Church. I would guess it was in around 1980, and on a Palm Sunday. The then church was nearly full and although my wife and I were the the only non blacks in attendance, the congregation made us feel extremely welcome. I revisited the theatre on May 23, 2004, only to find it completly boarded up and displaying a for sale sign. Anyone interested? The phone number is 773 721-9640.
I drove by the Portage theatre on May 22,2004 and it’s definitely not open for business.
One of the few northside B&K theatres in which I never saw a movie, but about ten years ago I saw the inside and it’s a typical spectacular B&K movie palace. Unfortuately the marquee and huge vertical have been removed but the auditorium and lobby remain intact. The staff were very friendly and let me look around even though nothing was scheduled that day. The Gateway is definitely worth a visit and probably in the best shape of any of the former B&K theatres in Chicago except for perhaps the Chicago theatre
Sheer luck got me inside this theatre. Some people were rehearsing for a performance on Saturday May 15, 2004, so I walked inside. A lovely art deco theatre with a nice balcony and a seating capacity of about 1200. The theatre was built in 1938. The art deco chandalier in the foyer area is very impressive. Although some staff members were present during my self tour, most seemed to know very little about this lovely theatre which makes their employment and their productions possible.
I just saw this theatre on May l6, 2004. The funding for the restoration came from city funds. Much of the restoration monies were spent to widen the theatre to provide access to the additional multi-functional facilty built behind the theatre. The addition can be used for a variety of functions including movies. A removable platform which is used when movies are shown provides stadium style seating for 100. When the platform is removed the floor is level and options are unlimited. A wedding reception has already been booked for September.
The theatre was formerly owned by Great Easten Theatres ( they also own the Paramount in Fremont, Ohio) who operated the theatre until 1996. It stood empty from then until its grand opening on May 8, 2004.
The lobby, exterior and the marquee were all beautifully restored and while the auditorium is nice, there’s not a lot of visable features to remind you you’re in a 55 year old theatre. The walls have all been covered with pleated sound curtains. The six or seven beautiful deco sconces on each side of the auditorium, however, help to beautify the uninspiring sound curtains.
The Maumee has a chance of survival because of the city ownership. The 12 screen multiplex a mile down the road would, unfortuantely, make private ownership impossible. Not too many miles down the road from the first multiplex is an even bigger multiplex.
Yes, It’s true the Music Hall is open again. I talked to a staff member who informed me the theatre re-opened about 5 weeks ago. It’s still part of the Festival group. Closure was due to the ceiling being in need of some major repair. Anyway, the repairs have been completed and Toronto’s largest single screen theatre is back in operation. Unlike the Bloor these owners didn’t wait for the ceiling actually fall.
If any of the theatre enthusiasts decide to visit the Music Hall, arrive in the area hungry. The theatre is located in the heart of Toronto’s Greek Town which is loaded with many terrific restaurants.
I saw this theatre as well as the other two theatres operated by BCRAC all in the same weekend about 4 years ago. Saw movies in two of them. The Sayre (click on the above web site for pictures of all three) is the largest and most impressive of the three. Someday soon I’ll submit some details.
I tried to see the inside of the Oak during a visit to Chicago during the early 1980’s. Unfortunately, the ticket person wouldn’t let me inside without purchasing a ticket even though I assured him I’d be only five minutes and was only interested in seeing the theatre. I then asked if I could just see the foyer area. This request was also met with a “No tickie, no lookie.” I finally asked if I bought a ticket would I be able to see any of the theatre’s architecture while the movie was showing. He informed me it was very dark and that I probably wouldn’t see anything. I gave up and never did get to see the inside of the Oak before its demolition.
I remember there was a great old fashioned ice cream parlour less than a block away. Anyone know if it’s still there?
I first saw this theatre’s exterior a few years ago and again drove by it in April, 2004. I got all excited that I’d finally see the inside of the theatre because according to the marquee a Sunday matinee was playing. No such luck, either the matinee had just finished or no one showed up and the matinee was cancelled. I can, however, state that the exterior looks exactly like the picture. If the inside is as nice as the outside, it will definitely be worth another try to see the inside.
One of the additional joys of visiting theatres is meeting the owners or managers. Without fail, they have many colorful and amusing tales to pass along. I’ll share this one with you.
When the Mattla’s took over the theatre they “inherited” an elderly very hard of hearing gentleman who serviced the candy counter. Before the Mattla’s recently enclosed the auditorium, there was simply a half wall between the candy counter and the auditorium. It seemed when “little Johnny or Billy” took too long choosing a candy selection, the elderly gentleman would bellow out, “What Do You Want” This famous line, “What Do You Want” was heard many times throughout every movie. I’m not sure if this line was appropiate dialogue in all the situations in the movie, but I’ll bet many time it fit well.
The story was a source of amusement for me and no doubt many of the patrons. I wonder if the patron bet each other who was at the candy couter when, What Do You Want" roared through the auditorium.
My memory could be wrong but when I talked to the owner of the Riviera in the l980’s, I believe he said the chandelier came from the Shea’s Bailey Theatre. If I wrong, please let me know.
The last time I was in the Riviera was 1980, they’d have an organ recital and then show a movie— all for $2.00. I was smoking in those days and I remember you could smoke in the balcony. In the early eighties comedy clubs abounded everywhere, and the Riviera started having a movie and a comic routine on the same bill.
I passed by the Riviera about 6 months ago and “she” still put forth an impressive exterior
The first time I was in the Music Box was 1961 when I saw “A Rasin In The Sun”. As a young person I was never impressed by the Music Box, but remember, this is Chicago which had neighborhood theatres of 5000 seats (The Uptown) and many neighborhood theatres that sat over 3000. I also found its open vertical like the Covent theatre looking rather unfinished.
However since 1961, I’ve been in a lot of mega-plexes and in comparison The Music Box looks great. I re-visited The Music Box about 15 years ago and it looked terrific. Although I’m still not fond of its open vertical and it’s lack of a balcony, I wish I owned it.
In 196l, The Southport area was certainly not prime Chicago real estate but luckily the neighborhood started to become trendy and The Music Box sucessfully re-opened.
Ah! if we could only predict real estate trends we all be wealthy and own prospering theatres.
Until its re-opening, The Music Box was never a first run house. All major releases premiered at downtown theatres (there were a few exceptions like “B” horror films) and then went to 2nd run movie palaces like the Uptown, Century, Gateway, and other 2000+ seat theatres. Along with the “A” film previously released downtown you got to see a “B” film for one admission. Smaller neighborhood independant theatres like the Music Box got films after they played at the large neighborhood houses for one to two weeks.
Just in case you want a view of the Hollywood’s exterior, its address is; 39 West Main St., Gowanda, N.Y.