Tower Theater, Sacramento

The Tower Theatre in Sacramento, established in 1938, stands as a significant cultural landmark and the oldest continuously operating picture palace in the city. This historical cinema is prominently located in the Broadway District and has been a vital part of Sacramento's film scene, especially noted for premiering films by local filmmakers such as Colin Hanks and Greta Gerwig.

Designed by the acclaimed California theater architect William B. David, the Tower Theatre showcases the Streamline Moderne style of architecture, known for its curvaceous forms and long horizontal lines. Originally owned by Joseph Blumenfeld, a second-generation theatre owner, the theatre opened with the movie "Algiers." Over the years, it underwent several transformations, including a significant renovation in 1972 when it was converted into a three-screen cinema.

The theater has changed hands a few times, being acquired by the Reading International theater chain in 1998, which later updated the theater with digital projectors in 2012. In 2016, it was sold to an endowment fund as a long-term investment.

Today, the Tower Theatre is dedicated to showcasing a diverse array of films, including independent, foreign, and specialty films. It remains a beloved destination for Sacramento's film lovers, offering not just films but also craft beverages and bites. This theatre not only preserves a piece of Sacramento's cinematic history but also continues to support and promote local talent in the arts.