El Capitan Theatre

El Capitan Theatre occupies a prominent corner along Hollywood Boulevard with a facade that displays columns, arched windows, and decorative tilework characteristic of Spanish Colonial design. Inside, the auditorium rises through multiple tiers with ornamental plasterwork covering the walls and ceiling, while the proscenium arch frames a wide stage area.

The building opened on May 3, 1926, as a stage house designed for live theatrical productions and vaudeville acts under the direction of Sid Grauman. During the 1930s, the venue shifted to motion picture screenings as live theater became less economically practical.

Visitors notice the theater's connection to Disney film culture through frequent premiere screenings and themed lobby displays that change with each major release. Live organ performances before selected showings recall the early days of cinema when musicians played alongside silent films.

The entrance hall opens directly from the boulevard into a lobby with ticket windows and access to all seating levels. The auditorium offers seating across multiple tiers, with ground-floor sections accessible for wheelchair users.

The Wurlitzer organ was originally installed at San Francisco's Fox Theatre in 1929 before being relocated here. Before selected screenings, an organist performs on the instrument as it rises from the orchestra pit.

Location: Los Angeles

Inception: 1926

Official opening: May 3, 1926

Architectural style: Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, Mediterranean Revival architecture

Capacity: 1100

Website: http://elcapitantheatre.com

GPS coordinates: 34.10133,-118.33982

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:04