Strand Theater, Movie theater in Deanwood neighborhood, Washington, D.C.
The Strand Theater at 5131 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue NE is an early 20th-century movie palace with classical architectural design and around 580 seats. The building originally housed a complete entertainment complex combining cinema, dancing, and billiards facilities in a single space.
The theater opened on November 3, 1928, and operated as an entertainment venue for more than four decades until 1959. It became a significant place for the African-American community and their leisure activities.
The theater served as a community gathering place where neighbors could enjoy movies, dancing, and socializing all in one location. It held deep meaning for residents who made this venue part of their weekly routines.
The building underwent a complete renovation in 2021 and was converted into residential housing units while preserving its exterior facade. Visitors should note that this is now a private residential building and is not open to the public for tours.
The Preservation League of Washington, D.C. recognized the building's historical importance by naming it one of the city's Most Endangered Places. This distinction highlighted how critical it was to preserve this landmark despite its deteriorating condition.
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