The Story Behind L.A.’s Historic Theatre District

Constructed in 1931, the Art Deco-style Roxie Theatre was the final theatre built on Broadway Street.

Built in 1917, the Rialto is now home to an Urban Outfitters retail space.

Built in 1910, the Cameo (which was originally called Clune’s Broadway) is the oldest remaining theatre on the street.

The Los Angeles Theatre was built on Broadway in 1931 during the Great Depression, and is known as the most opulent of all the theatres in the historic district.

“The Great Depression did impact the neighborhood — the Los Angeles could not profitably fill its 2,000 seats and temporarily closed within months of opening — but by the late 1930s the region was rebounding, with war-time bringing in the biggest crowds.”

The grand Palace Theatre was built in 1911, originally named the Orpheum (the newer Orpheum was built in 1926).

This elegant theatre got a $1-million touch-up in 2011 to restore its beautiful design features.

“‘The massive Million Dollar opened in 1918 and its over-the-top design and décor earned it title as the city’s first ‘movie palace.'” – Bruce Scottow 

Between the balcony and the main floor, there are 2,024 seats in this stately theatre. 

Built in 1927, the Theatre at Ace Hotel was originally called United Artists.

Today, the Theatre at Ace Hotel can host up to 1,600 guests for a variety of different performances and programs.  

Built in 1926, this became the new Orpheum Theatre as the former Orpheum became the Palace.

The Orpheum has hosted performers like Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, and many more.

“A Wurlitzer organ was installed a short time later and the Orpheum remains the only theatre on Broadway so equipped.” – Bruce Scottow 

To take a walking tour through the Broadway Historic Theatre District and see these works of art up close, head to the Los Angeles Conservancy.
Editor’s note: The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board provided travel and accommodations for this trip.