Kilauea Theatre
99-252 Crater Rim Drive,
Volcano,
HI
96785
99-252 Crater Rim Drive,
Volcano,
HI
96785
2 people
favorited this theater
The Kilauea Theatre opened in 1924 seating 322. The Kilauea Theatre is located at the Kilauea Military Camp at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It was built as part of the rest and relaxation for the Army officers. The installation is still an active installation. The theatre is still used for community meetings, plays and on occasion for movies.
This theatre like many others built in the islands in the early-1920’s thru 1930’s was built of all wood and matched the décor of all island structures. Usually had a wooden lanai along the front of the theatre and built up off the ground on something like stilts. Those that are still in operation today that were built in this era still have no air conditioning and simply cooled by fans in the ceilings or along the side walls.
Contributed by
Charles Van Bibber
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Recent comments (view all 3 comments)
There is another theatre called the Kilauea Theatre on Kauai.
There is a photo at this site, if you scroll all the way down to “Kilauea.” (NOTE: you will pass the entry for the Kilauea Theatre listed here)
http://www.cinematour.com/theatres/us/HI/1.html
While vacationing in Kauai we saw the premiere of “Fahrenheit 9/11” in this theatre. It’s basically a big wood-frame hall. This is a charming theatre with a real sense of community, very laid-back. I think there are couches (yes, old couches) in some parts of the seating area. There are stores nearby, but the area is very rural-feeling and village-like.
This was a grand old military style movie theatre that played moves Mon – Sat all year round. The last movie showed was around 1984 or so and I was the person in charge of the theatre and its projectionist. Movies stopped and VCR movies became available for rent. Being in the Navy and having stayed there while I was on a trip to the Big Island, called me back after I got out. Great memories and hope to get back there one day.
I should say that air conditioning was not needed as this is at 4,000 ft and the air is quite cool year round, therefore no need for fans. The projection booth was above the ticket counter in front of the building and was accessed by a ladder inside and stairs on the left. During the 70’s and 80’s movies were also open to all Volcano Villiage residents and rented out by the Volcano Art Center to put on all types of shows.