Dormont's Hollywood Theatre to reopen fulltime
Dormont’s Hollywood Theater made its second major announcement this month. Earlier in June, the Hollywood announced it would reopen to screen classic films on weekends with the assistance of the Bradley Center, a team of volunteers, and Dormont Borough Council President John Maggio. However, Maggio is now reporting the Hollywood will reopen fulltime under new management in August, thanks to interest from Motion Picture Heritage (MPH).
MPH is an Indianapolis-based group that rehabilitates and operates classic cinemas nationwide in conjunction with community activists. It will be subleasing the space for two years, with the option for an additional six, from the Bradley Center, which leases the building from Hollywood Partners LLP.
The Hollywood was last operated as a second-run theater by the Bradley Center in 2007-2008.
The 298-seat venue underwent more than $300,000 in renovations in 2007. Future plans include adding a cafe, acquiring a liquor license and hosting live music performances. Films will range from classics to cutting-edge indies to contemporary major studio fare, says Bill Dever with MPH.
“We don’t want the Hollywood to be just a movie theater; we want it to be a complete experience,” says Dever. “Potomac Avenue has a huge potential for restaurants and shops, so we want to help create foot traffic for our neighbors. People can get a meal before a movie, or grab a beer afterward. We’ve seen situations like this where revitalized theaters have really improved local economics.”
The Hollywood, located at 1449 Potomac Ave., is in the heart of one of Dormont’s two business corridors, the other being along West Liberty Avenue. Dormont is celebrating its centennial this year, with a week of activities and events kicking off June 27. This includes Buy Local Week, which encourages sustainable shopping habits by promoting independent business in both of Dormont’s commercial districts.
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