Preservation Efforts for Brooklyn Theaters

Hey everyone, welcome back to *Brooklyn Echoes*, the podcast that keeps the borough’s legends and memories alive. I’m your host, Robert Henriksen.

Preservation efforts for Brooklyn’s historic movie theaters have been ongoing for decades, driven by a mix of city initiatives, private partnerships, nonprofit organizations, and community advocacy. These efforts often focus on restoring architectural grandeur, adapting spaces for modern use (like live performances or community events), and securing landmark status to prevent demolition. Key players include the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), EverGreene Architectural Arts for restoration work, and groups like the Theatre Historical Society of America. Below, I’ll outline major examples based on notable theaters, including timelines, involved parties, and outcomes.

### Kings Theatre (Flatbush)

One of Brooklyn’s most celebrated restorations, the Kings Theatre (originally Loew’s Kings, opened 1929) was abandoned in 1977 and fell into severe disrepair. In 2010, a public-private partnership led by the City of New York, ACE Theatrical Group, and Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group initiated a $95 million renovation. EverGreene Architectural Arts handled intricate plaster restoration, ceiling repairs, and decorative painting, while Martinez+Johnson Architecture oversaw the overall design. The theater reopened in 2015 as a performing arts venue, preserving its French Renaissance style and now hosting tours to educate visitors on its history. The project earned awards like the Platinum Reconstruction Award from Building Design+Construction magazine.

### Brooklyn Paramount (Downtown Brooklyn)

Built in 1928, this Baroque-style theater closed in the 1960s and was repurposed as a gymnasium for Long Island University. Recent preservation efforts culminated in a 2024 redesign by Arcadis, in collaboration with Live Nation, focusing on acoustic upgrades and modern entertainment while retaining original features like ornate ceilings and proscenium. The $50 million project transformed it into a 2,700-seat music venue, emphasizing its jazz and rock history (e.g., hosting Duke Ellington and early integrated audiences). Earlier scouting in 2013 highlighted its decayed state, underscoring the need for intervention.

### Ridgewood Theatre (Ridgewood)

Opened in 1916, this early movie house was designated a New York City Landmark by the LPC in 2010, protecting its facade and recognizing its role in neighborhood development. Preservation focused on adaptive reuse; after closing as a theater in 2008, it was converted into retail space while maintaining exterior elements. The LPC’s report emphasized its historical context in Brooklyn’s immigrant communities.

### Other Notable Efforts

– **East New York Theaters**: A beloved local theater (possibly the Linden or similar) was repurposed in recent years for community use, as part of broader “Rebuilding Brooklyn” initiatives. By 2025, it had taken on new roles like event spaces, supported by local nonprofits to combat urban decay.

– **Broader Initiatives**: Organizations like the New York Preservation Archive Project (NYPAP) have documented and advocated for Brooklyn’s theaters, drawing parallels to Manhattan’s 1980s Theater District saves. Sites like Cinema Treasures track ongoing campaigns, and the city’s Economic Development Corporation often funds restorations to boost cultural tourism.

– **Challenges and Ongoing Work**: Many theaters face threats from development; advocacy groups push for more LPC designations. For instance, defunct venues like the Fortway (now a market) retain partial architectural elements due to community pressure.

These efforts highlight a trend toward revitalization rather than demolition, blending history with contemporary needs. For deeper dives, resources like the LPC website or EverGreene’s project archives offer detailed case studies. If you’re interested in specific theaters or tours, let me know!

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