Old Greenbelt Theatre

The Old Greenbelt Theatre is an Art Deco-style movie house in Roosevelt Center with two screening areas. The main auditorium holds approximately 368 seats while a smaller room accommodates about 40 viewers.

The theater opened on September 21, 1938, and adapted through the decades as cinema technology evolved. The City of Greenbelt purchased and protected the building in 2002 when commercial interests sought to convert it into retail space.

The theater serves as a gathering place where residents come together to watch films and participate in community events. Its operation by a nonprofit organization reflects how much the building matters to local life.

The theater underwent major upgrades in 2014 and 2015, receiving digital projection systems and modernized restrooms and concession areas. Visitors today find well-maintained facilities and comfortable viewing conditions.

The building showcases Streamline Moderne design, a style expressing speed and progress through flowing lines and curves. This architectural detail makes the theater a notable example of 1930s modern aesthetics.

Location: Greenbelt

Inception: 1937

Architects: Douglas Ellington, Reginald Jeffrey Wadsworth

Official opening: September 21, 1938

Architectural style: Art Deco, Streamline Moderne

Operator: Friends of Greenbelt Theatre

Part of: Greenbelt Historic District, Roosevelt Center

Address: 129 Centerway, Greenbelt, MD 20770 U.S.

Phone: +13013292034

Email: hello@greenbelttheatre.org

Website: https://greenbelttheatre.org

GPS coordinates: 39.00139,-76.87613

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:21