Even though it is an inspired choice, I would never have thought it would be hosting the Tonys because of its out of the way location.Somehow,people will get there. It will be a boon for the neighborhood. My guess is Radio City wanted to much & with the ratings a problem they need a cheaper venue . It has about 3,300 or so seats so maybe a few less people can attend.
I have been in the theater a few times over the years. There is an almost twin theater (lobby is somewhat different) in Syracuse NY. It was originally the State but is now called the Landmark theater.
There is lighting behind the filigree side wall decor which looks fabulous when lit. I hope they play the massive pipe organ during the Tonys . The architect, Thomas Lamb did many theaters all over the country. Some in NY were the State,Mark Strand & Capitol in Times Square. He also did the eye popping San Francisco Fox which was demolished in one of the most despicable acts of civic vandalism in memory. Unfortunately, they are all gone.
I wonder where the orchestra will play as the pit was filled in or covered years ago. I will always remember taking a personal tour of the theater a few years ago. What struck me was a little room off the mens room(entered directly from it). It had books & a piano & was a Mens Smoking Room.
I also have an actual opening day program given to me years ago by a friend. It is in full color & looks like it was printed yesterday & not 70 plus years ago. I can hardly wait for next year.
The theater was one of 5 Loew's Wonder theaters. They were tabbed "wonder theaters" for the Wonder Morton theater organs installed in them. The wonder is they are all still standing although the Kings in Brooklyn is basically a derelict & is living on borrowed time. A shame as it is one of the most opulent theaters ever built.
Poster Emeritus
Updated On: 7/9/10 at 07:25 PM