10 Fascinating Facts About

Located in the heart of Hollywood, the Hollywood Pantages Theatre stands as a testament to the golden age of cinema and live performance. With its rich history and stunning Art Deco architecture, it's a must-visit for anyone exploring Los Angeles' vibrant entertainment scene. Here are 10 intriguing facts about this iconic venue:

1. A Grand Opening in 1930

The Pantages Theatre opened its doors on June 4, 1930, showcasing The Florodora Girl starring Marion Davies. Designed by architect B. Marcus Priteca, it was the last theatre built by vaudeville impresario Alexander Pantages and marked the end of Hollywood's movie palace era.

2. Art Deco Masterpiece

Celebrated as one of the most opulent Art Deco theatres in Los Angeles, the Pantages dazzles visitors with its intricate chevrons, zigzags, starbursts, and exotic figures adorning both its interior and exterior.

3. From Vaudeville to Silver Screen

Originally designed to host both vaudeville acts and motion pictures, the theatre transitioned primarily to film screenings during the Great Depression, adapting to the changing entertainment landscape.

4. Home of the Academy Awards

Between 1950 and 1960, the Pantages Theatre was the prestigious venue for the Academy Awards. Notably, the first televised Oscars were broadcast from here in 1953, marking a significant moment in entertainment history.

5. Howard Hughes' Hollywood Headquarters

In 1949, Howard Hughes acquired the theatre through RKO Pictures. He maintained personal offices and an apartment above the theatre's entrance, adding to its storied past.

6. A Major Restoration

After sustaining damage from the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the Pantages underwent a significant restoration in 2000, reviving its original 1930s grandeur. Today, it boasts a seating capacity of 2,703 and continues to host top-tier performances.

7. Broadway in Hollywood

Now operated by the Nederlander Organization, the Pantages is a premier venue for Broadway productions in Los Angeles, bringing acclaimed shows like Hamilton, Wicked, and The Lion King to the West Coast.

8. A Favorite Filming Location

Beyond live performances, the theatre has served as a backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and music videos, thanks to its iconic design and prime location on Hollywood Boulevard.

9. Architectural Significance

The Pantages is recognized as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, preserving its architectural and cultural legacy for future generations to appreciate.

10. Upcoming Shows

As of mid-2025, the Pantages is set to host a lineup of exciting productions, including A Beautiful Noise, Some Like It Hot, Shucked, Les Misérables, Hadestown, and Moulin Rouge! The Musical.

Experience the Magic of the Pantages

Want to pass by the Magic of the Pantages and other legendary Hollywood landmarks in style? Book a VIP Hollywood tour with us. Settle into your seat on an open-air bus and relax as you admire the sights.

Enjoy interactive videos and live commentaries from your local driver/guide. No need to hop off, we’ve got you! Audio guide available in 9 languages: French, Spanish, German, Italian, Arabic, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean and Chinese.