Princess Theater, Bloomington

The Princess Theatre has left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape since its establishment in 1913. The theater was originally built by Robert H. Harris, who enlisted the architectural firm of Nichols & Nichols for its design. Throughout its illustrious history, the Princess Theatre served as a vibrant hub for entertainment, hosting a diverse array of vaudeville shows and screening movies that captivated audiences of all ages.

Although the era of movie screenings has passed, the legacy of the Princess Theatre lives on through its iconic signage adorning the front entrance. Over the years, the theater underwent significant transformations to keep pace with evolving tastes and competition from other entertainment venues. In 1923, under the direction of John Nichols, the auditorium of the Princess Theatre was doubled in size, marking a milestone in its architectural evolution. The facade was also redesigned, featuring glazed terra cotta crafted by the Indianapolis Terra Cotta Co., adding to the theater's allure and charm.

Despite facing challenges and changes in ownership over the years, the Princess Theatre remained a beloved fixture in the community until 1981. Subsequent attempts at renovation by various owners aimed to preserve its historic significance and revitalize its role as a cultural center. In 1986 the theater saw new life as Leslie's Italian Villa, followed by the Princess Restaurant until June of 2001. Today, under the stewardship of Chris Hawes, the Princess Theatre stands as a testament to Bloomington's rich cultural heritage and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of residents and visitors alike.