Alamo Drafthouse to bring Cinerama Dome back to life
LANDMARK theater is expected to open in 2028.
By A.R. Johnstone
One of Hollywood’s most beloved movie landmarks is finally headed for a long-awaited comeback. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema has announced plans to reopen the historic Cinerama Dome along with the 14 ArcLight Hollywood theaters, 6360 W. Sunset Blvd., restoring one of Los Angeles’ premier moviegoing destinations after years of sitting dark. The reopening is expected in 2028 following an extensive restoration, with construction beginning this month.
The Cinerama Dome has been a Hollywood icon since it opened in 1963. Designed with its instantly recognizable geodesic dome and giant curved screen, it quickly became one of the most famous movie theaters in the world. Built to showcase the revolutionary Cinerama widescreen process, the theater has hosted countless premieres over the past six decades and remains one of the few venues capable of presenting films in 70mm format.
The Dome and the adjacent 14-screens closed during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, leaving one of Hollywood’s most treasured entertainment destinations shuttered despite repeated calls from filmmakers and movie fans for its return.
Founded in Austin, Texas, Alamo Drafthouse owned by Sony Pictures, will operate the restored site and will offer their signature moviegoing experience as patrons are served restaurant-quality food and drinks delivered to their seats while watching films in the 14-screen location (excluding the Cinerama Dome). The chain is equally well known for its strict no-talking and no-texting policies, with guests being asked to leave with no refund. They also have a no children policy with exceptions made for their kid-friendly screenings.
According to the company, the historic Cinerama Dome itself will retain its classic identity and architecture, preserving the legendary theater while the adjoining former ArcLight auditoriums will become Alamo Drafthouse’s new West Coast flagship.
Category: Real Estate
