Whispers of Hollywood legends echo within these walls. Welcome to The Belasco Theater a jewel of Downtown Los Angeles.
This magnificent theater opened in 1926. Oil tycoon Edward L Doheny commissioned its construction. The architectural firm Morgan Walls & Clements designed it in the Churrigueresque style. It was originally named the Doheny Theatre. However it was later renamed to honor the renowned New York playwright David Belasco.
The Belasco’s grand opening on November 1 1926 featured the play Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. It quickly became a hub for legitimate theater. It hosted a variety of plays and even some early film screenings. The Belasco even played a part in the New Deal-era Federal Theatre Project during the 1930s. This program aimed to boost the arts after the Great Depression.
In the late 1940s The Belasco’s focus shifted. It transitioned to burlesque shows and movies. This change marked the beginning of its closure in 1950. After a brief stint as a church it sat largely unused for over two decades. However in 2011 The Belasco was reborn. It reopened as a vibrant music venue. Live Nation took over as its operator in 2020.
The Belasco has starred in numerous films. It appeared in classics like Being John Malkovich and End of Days. It even served as a backdrop for scenes in Memoirs of a Geisha and The Prestige. The theater’s unique architecture and history continue to captivate filmmakers today.
The Belasco Theater is more than just a building. It’s a living testament to Los Angeles’s rich theatrical past. It’s a stage for both historical memories and the exciting entertainment of today. The Belasco is a must-see for any visitor wanting to explore the heart of Hollywood’s legacy.