A majestic Italian Renaissance building. That’s the Variety Arts Center. This five-story marvel stands before you. It’s a registered Historic-Cultural Monument. It’s a testament to the vibrant past of Los Angeles.
The Variety Arts Center opened in 1924. It began as The Playhouse. It was the home of the Friday Morning Club. This women’s social and political group had a significant impact on Los Angeles history. The opening night featured Doris Keane in the play Romance. Will Rogers was the toastmaster. Charlie Chaplin and Cecil B DeMille were among the guests.
Over the years the Variety Arts Center changed names. It was known as the Figueroa Playhouse the Neuhaus World Theater the Times Theatre the Major Theatre and the Figueroa 9th Street Theatre. The building housed a 1000-seat theatre. There was also a smaller entertainment venue a nightclub a lounge and a library. In its heyday the theatre hosted famous performers. Eleanor Roosevelt and Dorothy Parker spoke there. Al Jolson and Eddie Cantor broadcast radio shows. It’s even rumored that Clark Gable got his start on its stage.
In the 1970s the building fell into disrepair. Milt Larsen of Magic Castle fame spearheaded its rescue. His Society for the Preservation of the Variety Arts purchased it in 1977. He revitalized the space. He used different areas for bars exhibits and performances. The smaller third-floor theatre was called The Masquers Theatre and the Tin Pan Alley Little Theatre Cabaret. The organization also ran a vaudeville library. A 52-foot boat once graced the roof. It was a model from the 1948 film Luxury Liner. Unfortunately it met an untimely end. It was mistaken for trash and destroyed.
Despite efforts to save it the Variety Arts Center faced financial difficulties. It closed in 1988. Many different operators tried their hand. These included nightclub ventures. There were even attempts at producing original shows.
The Variety Arts Center has also seen its share of cinematic fame. It served as the auditorium of Windsor College in Scream 2. John C Reilly performed there in Walk Hard.
Today the Variety Arts Center remains a beautiful landmark. It stands as a symbol of Los Angeles’s rich cultural legacy. It waits for its next chapter. It is a silent testament to the city’s enduring spirit.