Plaza Theatre

Category: Art Houses

The Plaza Theatre was built in 1939 as the cornerstone of the new automobile-centric Briarcliff Plaza Shopping Center. The first film shown was THE WOMEN.

After years of successful business, the area began to change. As the clientele became less sophisticated, so did the films. However, in the early 80s, the theatre was purchased by George Lefont. Mr. Lefont remodeled the theatre, enclosing the balcony for a second screen and updating most of the fixtures. He reopened the theatre by showing THE WOMEN.

In 2006, Mr. Lefont sold the theatre to local couple, Jonathan and Gayle Rej. They have focused on event-centered films with live audience interactive elements, including Splatter Cinema, the Silver Scream Spook Show, Flicks & Giggles, Summer Camp, and Art Opening and a Movie.

The theatre currently has two screens. The large downstairs auditorium, with beautiful gold velvet curtains, Heywood Wakefield rockers, and original light sconces, seats 375. It features a stage, spotlight, and backstage dressing area.

The upstairs theatre (formerly the balcony) is more intimate with fixed seating and blue linen curtains. It seats 175.

The enormous lobby enters under the restored marquee. It features a wall of classic film posters, restored ticket booth and concession stand, original crystal chandeliers and wall sconces, ever-changing art gallery, and classic video games.