Scene One Spectrum 8 Theatres

Opened by Warner Bros. Circuit Management Corp. on July 15, 1941 as the Delaware Theatre, It was designed by the architectural firm Blatner & van der Bogert. It was operated by Stanley-Warner and had a seating capacity for 699, all on a single floor.

From the Spectrum 8’s official website: Located at 290 Delaware Ave. in Albany, NY, the Spectrum 8 Theatres is a locally owned, independent movie theatre that has been in operation since May 6, 1983. We are committed to showing films that are provocative, entertaining and thought-provoking. By showcasing the best first-run independent, foreign and Hollywood films, the Spectrum has differentiated itself from the competition. We offer a state-of-the-art alternative to the mall movie experience. Dolby digital and stereo surround sound enhances enjoyment of our “spectrum” of film offerings. Off-street parking in either of our two lots means no hassles and no mall traffic.

The Spectrum’s Art Deco style atmosphere, art gallery, and slide shows that feature the work of local artists make going to the movies a unique experience. Our snack bar offers a delicious selection of baked goods, coffees, teas and popcorn with real butter. Special events featuring conversations with independent filmmakers are a regular part of our programming. We are committed to keeping alive the idea of cinema as a vital art form and are proud to have created what is now considered to be the Capital District’s primary resource for films that were formerly available to Metropolitan residents only.

The original auditorium was divided into two, which are currently screen numbers 3 and 4. The theater still has plenty of original architectural features.

It was taken over by Landmark Theatres. They closed the theatre on February 28, 2024. Local chain Scene One Cinemas reopened The Spectrum on April 24, 2024.

Recent comments (view all 16 comments)

MikeKeegan on September 21, 2012 at 5:04 pm

I believe it actually seats 990.

Jasonlongtonjr on March 23, 2013 at 8:45 am

I enjoyed the delaware theatre as a young boy in the 1970’s with friends and family.

gd14lawn on December 10, 2013 at 9:59 pm

You’re right, 699 was the original capacity for the Delaware Theatre.

NickyG on December 14, 2015 at 1:15 pm

The original owners sold to Landmark Theaters and the theather is now the Landmark though they sort of keep the original Spectrum 8 name. No other changes, still top notch.

ridethectrain on April 17, 2021 at 9:38 pm

Please update, total seats 985

Seating capacity 1. 108 2. 133 3 and 4. 186 5. 71 6. 69 7. 143 8. 89 Source: Landmark Theatres rsvp seating maps

dsedman on February 18, 2024 at 6:25 pm

The Landmark Spectrum 8 closes on February 28, 2024 as Landmark continues to wind down operations of its lease-ending properties. Rumors have a new operator thinking about taking on the location..

ridethectrain on April 23, 2024 at 4:52 am

please update open as of April 24, grsnd reopening ad in photos

Trolleyguy on April 30, 2024 at 5:06 pm

Story about new owner. Spectrum

rivest266 on May 9, 2024 at 7:50 pm

Opened by Warner Brothers on July 15th, 1941. 1941 and 2024 grand opening ads posted.

rivest266 on May 11, 2024 at 12:54 pm

Reopened as Spectrum with one screen on May 6th, 1983. Grand opening ad posted. More to come.