The historic Pantages Theatre, with its long and varied past on the Boulevard, has become one of Hollywood's best-loved landmarks. Opened in 1930 as part of the Fox movie chain, the Pantages was one of Hollywood's first movie houses and hosted hundreds of star-studded premieres, vaudeville acts, and concerts. The theatre changed hands in 1949 when Howard Hughes added it to his RKO Pictures chain, during which time it became home to the Academy Awards for ten years.
In 1977, with the desire to bring legitimate theatre back to Hollywood, new owners converted the Pantages Theatre to a live venue. Scores of big Broadway musicals have since graced the stage and, in anticipation of the West Coast premiere of The Lion King, the theatre was restored to its original splendor. Visitors to the 2,600-seat venue will find a stunning Art Deco lobby, sweeping high ceilings, and some of the most comfortable seats on the Boulevard.
