Granada Theater (The Dalles, Oregon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Granada Theater
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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The Granada Theater in 2008.
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 Location in The Dalles OR
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| Location | 221 E. 2nd Street The Dalles, Oregon |
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| Built | 1929 |
| Built by | M.R. Matthew |
| Architect | William Cutts |
| Architectural style | Moorish Revival |
| Restored | 1996 |
| Part of | The Dalles Commercial Historic District (ID86002953) |
| Added to NRHP | November 4, 1986 |
The Granada Theater is a cool old building in The Dalles, Oregon. It was built way back in 1929. The outside of the theater looks special, like something from a storybook, because it's built in the Moorish Revival style. You can find it on 2nd and Washington streets.
Contents
A Look at Granada Theater's Past
The Granada Theater has a long and interesting history. It has seen many changes over the years.
How the Theater Was Built
An architect named William A. Cutts designed the theater. He worked for the Universal Film Corporation and the building's owner, M.R. Matthew. Building the theater cost about $125,000. That was a lot of money back then!
Early Movie Magic
When it first opened, the Granada Theater had special sound systems. These were called Vitaphone and Movietone. People say this theater was the very first one west of the Mississippi River to show a "talkie" movie. Talkies were movies where you could hear the actors speak, not just see them.
Changes Over Time
In the 1950s, a new corner sign was added to the building. This sign, called a marquee, helped people find the theater. In 1986, the Granada Theater became part of The Dalles Commercial Historic District. This means it was recognized as an important historical building.
New Owners and Reopening
The city of The Dalles bought the theater in September 2010. Later, in March 2017, new owners purchased the building. They had big plans to fix it up and open it again. The theater reopened in November 2017. Its outside was repainted to look just like it did in 1929.
Support During Tough Times
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the theater received help. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department gave money to the Granada Theater. This funding helped pay for repairs and kept the building open for everyone to enjoy.
