About the Plaza Theatre:
The Plaza Theatre was built in 1939 and is Atlanta longest continuously-operating independent theater. In 2006, Jonathan and Gayle Rej bought the theatre. They have focused on event-centered films with live audience-interactive elements, including Splatter Cinema, the Silver Scream Spookshow, Flicks & Giggles, Summer Camp, and Art Opening and a Movie. In 2009, the Plaza Theatre received non-profit status.
The theatre currently has two screens. The large downstairs auditorium, with beautiful gold velvet curtains, Heywood Wakefield rockers, and original light sconces, seats 375. It features a stage, spotlight, and backstage dressing area. The upstairs theatre (formerly the balcony) is more intimate with fixed seating and blue linen curtains. It seats 175.
The enormous lobby enters under the restored marquee. It features a wall of classic film posters, restored ticket booth and concession stand, original crystal chandeliers and wall sconces, ever-changing art gallery, and classic video games. The Plaza Theatre is available for event rentals. It features state-of-the-art film projection and sound, including a top-of-the-line digital projector.
History
Designed by architect George Harwell Bond, this theatre opened its doors
in 1939 as a 1000 seat art deco cinema and live theatre. In the 1970s,
the cinema operated as an X-rated adult cinema and live burlesque
theatre until the entire shopping center was renovated by current owner
Robert Griffith. In 1983, the theatre was purchased by George Lefont who
was the first to bring independent cinema to Atlanta. The theatre
underwent renovations again when purchased by longtime Atlanta residents
Jonathan & Gayle Rej in August of 2006. The Plaza Theatre is the
last cinema of its kind in Atlanta, as well as the oldest continously
operating cinema in the city. Now with 501c3 non profit status, The
Plaza Theatre Foundation hopes to save this theatre, continue to promote
independent film, and support the local film community.
Click here to for photos from our 70th Anniversary Gala!
Any general theatre questions? Please email - gayle@plazaatlanta.com
