Princess Theatre

The Princess Theatre is a two-story rectangular brick building with a glazed terra cotta facade featuring full-height pilasters and ornamental brackets. The structure was originally adapted for cinema use and contained an auditorium with a two-manual pipe organ.

The building was originally constructed in 1892 for non-theatrical purposes before being redesigned and expanded in 1913 by architect John Nichols. This transformation allowed it to function as a cinema that served the community for decades.

The space originally served as a gathering place for entertainment and social events in this area. Its role as a community hub for experiencing new films shaped local culture during much of the 20th century.

The building at 206 N Walnut Street now houses a restaurant in the front section where the cinema once operated. The original interior spaces are not accessible to visitors, though the historic facade remains visible from the street.

A major structural collapse of the auditorium and stage area occurred in 1985, resulting in the removal of the entire theater section. This dramatic event is why only the front facade of the original cinema survives today.

Location: Bloomington

Inception: 1913

Address: 206 N. Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47404

GPS coordinates: 39.15889,-86.53306

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:06