State Theatre

The State Theatre is a cinema built in the Streamline Moderne style located downtown on Oak Street, featuring a striking two-story concrete facade. Inside, the theater houses one auditorium with seating for about 974 people and exemplifies the sleek geometric design language of mid-20th century movie palaces.

The theater was built between 1945 and 1946 by architects Alexander Aimwell and Alexander MacKenzie Cantin following the destruction of the original cinema in a 1944 fire. This reconstruction introduced the Streamline Moderne style to Red Bluff, marking a fresh start for the city's entertainment landscape.

The cinema has served Red Bluff as a gathering place for shared entertainment experiences, hosting both films and live performances that draw the local community together. The painted figures adorning the interior walls reflect the artistic ambitions that guided theater design during the mid-20th century.

The theater is conveniently located downtown on Oak Street in Red Bluff and can be reached by phone for information and bookings. Since programs and schedules vary throughout the year, it is helpful to contact ahead to learn what is currently showing or scheduled.

The building conceals original interior murals depicting mythological figures that were hidden from view for decades until a major renovation exposed them in 2008. The artwork had been covered by partition walls installed when the space was subdivided into multiple screening rooms.

Location: Red Bluff

Architects: Alexander Aimwell Cantin, Alexander MacKenzie Cantin

Official opening: May 24, 1946

Architectural style: Streamline Moderne

Address: 333 Oak Street, Red Bluff, CA 96080

Website: http://statetheatreredbluff.com

GPS coordinates: 40.17639,-122.23417

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:11