Opened in 1933, the Bellevue Theater stands as a testament to Manila’s vibrant past. This isn’t just any old theater. The Bellevue Theater uniquely blends Art Deco architecture with striking Philippine Islamic imagery, inspired by the moro-moro theatrical tradition. Imagine attending a movie premiere here in its heyday. The theater buzzed with excitement. Moviegoers ascended the pseudo-grand staircase, flanked by sculptures of harem maidens, adding an exotic touch to the experience. The central plane of decorative concrete work dominates the facade. Two rectangular volumes topped with domes frame the entrance, creating a symmetrical and visually appealing design. Inside, the theater boasted a seating capacity of 600, making it a popular spot for film enthusiasts in Paco, Manila. The Bellevue Theater is one of only two surviving movie houses out of twenty surveyed by the American Express Company in their Manila tourist guidebook. While the Manila Metropolitan Theater stands as another survivor, the Bellevue holds a unique charm. It tragically no longer operates as a theater. It has been repurposed as a clothing store. Despite its change in function, the building retains much of its original ornamentation. You can still see the pointed arches of the emergency doors at street level. The original seating arrangement is also preserved, offering a glimpse into the theater’s past glory. The Bellevue Theater stands at the intersection of Pedro Gil and Singalong Streets. It serves as a reminder of Manila’s rich architectural and cinematic heritage.
Asian Social Institute
Deep within Manila stands the Asian Social Institute. It is more than just a school. It’s a crucible of social