Boulevard Theatre

Opened in November 1926, the Boulevard Theatre stands as a testament to a bygone era of entertainment. This grand old dame of Jackson Heights, Queens, was one of three theaters built in Northwest Queens by the Grob & Knobel circuit. The Boulevard Theatre, with its impressive stage, was designed to be more than just a cinema. It was a playhouse, intended to host live performances, including shows recently closed on Broadway or those “trying out” before hitting the big time. The other two theaters, the Sunnyside and the Jackson, lacked the Boulevard’s stage capabilities and its distinctive balcony. The Boulevard Theatre truly was the jewel of the circuit. Imagine the excitement on opening night. The crowds buzzing with anticipation as they entered the majestic building, designed by the renowned architect Herbert J. Krapp. Throughout the week, theatergoers enjoyed plays and musicals. Sundays were reserved for vaudeville acts and feature films, a diverse offering that catered to a wide range of tastes. In 1928, William Fox acquired the Grob & Knobel theaters, sub-leasing the Boulevard Theatre to Louis Werba, a prominent figure who operated playhouses across the city. Sadly, the Great Depression forced both Fox and Werba into bankruptcy, changing the Boulevard Theatre’s trajectory. It transitioned into a double-feature movie house under Skouras Theatres. The Boulevard Theatre faced challenges due to its location, a long walk from the bustling 82nd Street shopping district. It never quite achieved the same level of success as the Jackson Theatre. Yet, it persevered, even undergoing a triplexing in the early 1980s. Eventually, neighborhood decline led to its closure. The Boulevard Theatre then sat vacant for years. A battle ensued over the owner’s demolition plans, fiercely opposed by the community. Ultimately, the Boulevard Theatre was reborn as the Natives Restaurant-Theater-Bar, a popular venue catering to Queens’ large Hispanic community. The former entrance and lobby became a vibrant restaurant and bar, while the three auditoriums hosted plays, concerts, and occasionally, imported films. This adaptation breathed new life into the Boulevard Theatre. It ensured that its legacy continued, albeit in a transformed capacity. Even in its final iteration as a restaurant and nightclub, the Boulevard Theatre remained a beloved landmark in Jackson Heights, a testament to its enduring appeal. Though sadly demolished in early 2021, the Boulevard Theatre’s story continues to echo through the memories of those who graced its halls and experienced its magic.