History
The Rapp & Rapp architectural team developed the first architectural design for the Kings Theatre in 1929. This architectural firm stopped operating in 1965, but while it was in operation, it designed over 400 theatres, each of which gained national recognition for its signature theatrical and movie-screening style. The interior styling and decor of the theatre were done by Harold W. Rambusch, and his works were deeply influenced by classical French theatre and opera houses.
Kings Theatre was one of the five "Loew’s Wonder Theatres" open to the masses at the time. When the theatre started operations, it was owned by Loews Incorporated and offered its audiences the chance to view movies and live vaudeville shows in auspicious settings. The theatre soon scaled back its shows to feature films only to meet the preferences and demands of its audience.
The first movie screened by Kings Theatre was "Evangeline," starring Dolores del Rio, in a program line-up that included a live show, an orchestra, and even a pipe organ performance. Over the years of its existence, the theatre featured performances by artists like Wesley Eddy and His Kings of Syncopation and the Chester Hales Girls.
However, Kings Theatre closed its gates permanently and wrapped operations in 1977. At the time of its closure, the theatre’s luxurious interior was virtually undamaged. However, vandalism, weather damage, and general neglect had meant its long past its glory days until 2008.
