The National, Richmond

The National Theater in Richmond is a storied cultural landmark with a rich history that traces back to the early 20th century. Constructed in the Renaissance Revival architectural style, this historic venue was originally built in 1922-1923 on Broad Street, an area once celebrated as Theatre Row. Notably, The National is the sole surviving auditorium among the original three that once graced this district.

With its grand opening on November 11, 1923, The National captivated audiences by screening Thomas Ince’s film "Her Reputation," in an event attended by prominent figures including Virginia's governor and Richmond’s mayor. The theater was designed with a versatile stage, capable of hosting both early motion pictures and live performances such as vaudeville shows. Its original auditorium boasted seating for 1,300, a large oval dome, and extensive Adamesque plasterwork, while the orchestra pit could accommodate 24 musicians, making it the largest in Virginia.

In 1968, The National underwent significant renovations which transformed it into a dedicated cinema house named the Towne Theater. This renovation saw alterations to the seating, covering of the orchestra pit, and the painting over of much of its intricate plasterwork. Despite these changes, the renamed venue struggled to compete with newer theaters in the suburbs and eventually closed in 1983.

The theater reopened in 2008 as The National, now serving as a live music and performing arts venue with an increased capacity of 1,500 seats. Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, The National was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. It remains a cornerstone of Richmond's Grace Street Commercial Historic District, celebrating its legacy as a beacon of entertainment and cultural enrichment in downtown Richmond.