Pittsburgh, a city with a rich tapestry of cultural history, now stands witness to the rebirth of one of its cinematic gems - the Row House-Hollywood movie theater. With its grand reopening, the theater melds the nostalgia of the past with the vivacity of modernity, creating an unparalleled cinematic journey.
A Legacy Reimagined
Originally debuting in 1926 as the Hollywood Theater, Pittsburgh’s beloved neighborhood cinema on Dormont’s Potomac Avenue is making a triumphant return. The theater has undergone an extensive two-year renovation under the guidance of Row House Cinemas. Principal owner Brian Mendelssohn envisions the revamped space as a testament to the “atmospheric theaters” trend from the 1920s—a nostalgic homage to a time when movies were the heart and soul of entertainment.
Setting the Stage: Remarkable Innovations
The revamped theater features a magnificent 400-seat main cinema, complete with an awe-inspiring domed ceiling that mimics galaxies with a planetarium-style star projector. According to Mendelssohn, this transformation is designed to provide guests with an extraordinary experience—something beyond ordinary cinema viewing.
Cinematic Diversity: Classic and Contemporary Films
As the theater prepares for its soft launch, it announces a lineup of Alfred Hitchcock classics, followed by a highly anticipated new release, “Bugonia,” from the acclaimed director Yorgos Lanthimos. The offerings highlight a balanced cinematic palette that caters to enthusiasts of both classic and modern films.
The theater also promises a unique array of events, from live performances accompanying classic films to special screenings, such as “The Passion of Joan of Arc” with live choral accompaniment. This cinematic diversity positions the Row House-Hollywood as a cultural hotspot in the heart of Pittsburgh.
Creating a Night Out: Beyond the Silver Screen
Mendelssohn emphasizes the new vision: creating a destination where every visit is a memorable night out. The theater not only houses state-of-the-art screens but also a variety set to indulge patrons with bars, lounges, and private event spaces by early November.
A Vision for the Future
Despite challenges in the cinema industry post-pandemic, Row House-Hollywood carries optimism forward. By offering a compelling alternative to home streaming, the theater hopes to rekindle the collective joy of moviegoing. “We wanted to create a new path and a new direction for the future of movie theaters,” Mendelssohn stated, underscoring an ambition to revitalize the communal spirit of cinema.
The revitalized Row House-Hollywood stands as a beacon of culture—merging the time-honored classic charm with the innovations of today—offering Pittsburgh a renewed cultural touchstone for film enthusiasts.