Art Cinema
204 Tremont Street,
Boston,
MA
02116
204 Tremont Street,
Boston,
MA
02116
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This was a small twin cinema that opened in the early-1970’s on Tremont Street between Boylston Street and Stuart Street, diagonally across from the Emerson Majestic Theatre. It started out showing second run mainstream films and later switched to adult movies, both gay and straight.
Contributed by
Gerald A. DeLuca
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Recent comments (view all 6 comments)
I remember this little cinema, but never went into it. I seem to recall that it was created out of a branch bank office.
The Art had a ticket window right at the street entrance, with a turnstyle next to it. After paying admission, one went through the turnstyle just like at a subway station.
The space occupied by the Art Theatre in the vintage photo is now occupied by Limelight Stage + Studios, which the Internet describes as a “[l]ively karaoke joint offering a choice of a public stage or private rooms, plus drinks & appetizers.” The menu is primarily east Asian and photos (and videos of people committing karaoke) on the Internet indicate a predominantly east Asian clientèle.
Nice to finally see some info on this place. When I worked at The Saxon I’d see the tiny entrance to this theater, don’t think I ever saw anyone go in or out. Always wondered if it was even open. An article in one of the papers (might have been The Phoenix) mentioned plans to refurbish it which would include a full bar. I’m guessing this was a place where the balcony was closed off to become the second house.
Apparently this was part of a multi-state chain of theaters all named Art Cinemas. The book “Coming Back to a Theater Near You: A History of Hollywood Reissues, 1914-2014” mentions a reissued film doing well for the Art Theater Circuit, mentioning Boston and another city.
If I remember correctly this twin cinema the theaters were next door to each other no balcony etc. Saw few gay films in 70’s and rememebr seeing texas chain saw massacre there. Laughed all way out and ticket seller told me it was a true story….