Picture the Oriental Theater. Its iconic marquee glows invitingly. This isn’t just any building. It’s a Denver landmark a piece of the city’s vibrant history.
The Oriental Theater opened its doors in 1927. Imagine a time of silent films and grand movie palaces. This theater was one of them. It showcased films for decades. It even boasted a Barton organ then a Kimball. The theater’s architectural style is called Exotic Revival.
Times changed. By 1960 the Oriental faced closure. Competition and changing tastes took their toll. New seating and carpet couldn’t save it. For nearly 45 years the theater sat silent.
Then in 2005 Scott Labarbera purchased the building. He transformed the space into a live music venue. A bold move. It breathed new life into the old structure. There were ownership changes. A near-disaster in 2011 threatened to shut it down again. A section of the building almost collapsed during a concert. Luckily it was repaired.
Today the Oriental thrives. It hosts local and national acts. It’s one of Denver’s last independently owned theaters. Owners Scott La Barbera and Andy Bercaw along with Lara Moore own it now. They’re proud to keep this piece of Denver’s history alive. They’ve even invested in restoring the original 1927 marquee. Morry’s Neon a Colorado company is undertaking this significant restoration project. They aim to return the marquee to its 1927 glory. This is a testament to the theater’s enduring appeal. The Oriental is more than just a venue. It’s a community gathering place. A place where history and entertainment collide. Step inside. Experience the magic.