Hawaii Theatre, Honolulu

When Hawaii Theatre first opened its doors in 1922, it earned the moniker "The Pride of the Pacific," placing it on par with theaters in San Francisco and New York. The architectural design of the building was the work of Honolulu-based architects Walter Emory and Marshall Webb. The exterior of the theater showcased elements of Neoclassical architecture, while the interior exuded Beaux-Arts aesthetics.

The theater's outer appearance showcased ornamental details inspired by Byzantine, Corinthian, and Moorish architectural styles. As you stepped inside, you'd be greeted by Corinthian columns, a stunning gilded dome, marble statues, luxurious carpets, silk wall decorations, and a mural created by the artist Lionel Walden, all enhancing the interior ambiance. One remarkable feature of the theater was its cooling system, cleverly designed with vents beneath the seats that circulated air from an ice storage area situated beneath the stage.

During its early years of operation, the theater presented silent films and Vaudeville performances, eventually transitioning into a movie theater that operated until the 1960s. However, as the entertainment hub of the island shifted from Honolulu to Waikiki, the theater fell into a state of neglect and eventually closed its doors in 1984. Determined to preserve this historic gem, citizens of Hawaii rallied together and established the nonprofit Hawaii Theatre Center to acquire the property and undertake extensive renovations. These efforts proved highly successful, leading to the Hawaii Theatre being honored with the title of the "Outstanding Historic Theatre in America" by the League of Historic America Theatres.