My grandmother, Laura Biamonte, actually just moved out of NewKen about 3 years ago, as she could no longer live on her own. She is in assisted living.
However, my Aunt, Maria Biamonte Warhola, would be a great source, as she remebers from the 50’s and 60’s a a kid/teenager. I am trying to get her more involved, and hopefully will have her signed up on here soon.
Glad to hear that. Although my family has moved out of the area, we still feel very connected to New Kensington. Please keep me upadated, we would love to see the building be open again.
There were several art decco style murals, both in the lobby and the auditorium. My dad told me he remebers they used black lights to give the murals are very cool, glowing vibe to them. I dont think they survived past the 70’s.
I also found this online, and have a very worn hard copy as well. View link
…the theater we see here was unofficialy refferd to as the ‘New’ Dattola. My Grandparents held part control until the early 1970’s. After selling the building, the new operators showed adult films (I cant imagine my poor grandmothers reaction to this). Eventually, by the end of the 1980’s, most of downtown had become dilapidated and the RA began buying up whole blocks, including the theater.
I think it is long overdue for a complete renovation, but nothing can ever seem to get off the ground in that city. Anyhow, I have great family photos I hope to post soon. Interior and extiror shots from the early 60’s.
My Name is Anthony Biamonte. I am the Great-Grandson of Bart Dattola. Since I was only born in 1985, I have no real recollection of the theater in operation. I was last inside about 15 years ago, and like much of the downtown area, it was in pretty bad shape. Lots of water damage, etc.
Bart Dattola originally began running a Nickelodeon in the early teens, called the Alhambra (in Arnold, PA). Eventually he would build and/or acquire the Paramount, Liberty and Dattola Theaters throughout the 20’s and 30’s.
My grandmother, Laura Biamonte, actually just moved out of NewKen about 3 years ago, as she could no longer live on her own. She is in assisted living.
However, my Aunt, Maria Biamonte Warhola, would be a great source, as she remebers from the 50’s and 60’s a a kid/teenager. I am trying to get her more involved, and hopefully will have her signed up on here soon.
Glad to hear that. Although my family has moved out of the area, we still feel very connected to New Kensington. Please keep me upadated, we would love to see the building be open again.
Thats my Dad :)
Yes, as soon as I figure out my scanner.
There were several art decco style murals, both in the lobby and the auditorium. My dad told me he remebers they used black lights to give the murals are very cool, glowing vibe to them. I dont think they survived past the 70’s.
I also found this online, and have a very worn hard copy as well.
View link
…the theater we see here was unofficialy refferd to as the ‘New’ Dattola. My Grandparents held part control until the early 1970’s. After selling the building, the new operators showed adult films (I cant imagine my poor grandmothers reaction to this). Eventually, by the end of the 1980’s, most of downtown had become dilapidated and the RA began buying up whole blocks, including the theater.
I think it is long overdue for a complete renovation, but nothing can ever seem to get off the ground in that city. Anyhow, I have great family photos I hope to post soon. Interior and extiror shots from the early 60’s.
My Name is Anthony Biamonte. I am the Great-Grandson of Bart Dattola. Since I was only born in 1985, I have no real recollection of the theater in operation. I was last inside about 15 years ago, and like much of the downtown area, it was in pretty bad shape. Lots of water damage, etc.
Bart Dattola originally began running a Nickelodeon in the early teens, called the Alhambra (in Arnold, PA). Eventually he would build and/or acquire the Paramount, Liberty and Dattola Theaters throughout the 20’s and 30’s.