Historic theater re-opens after 23 year vacancy.
See historic and restoration photos of the Capitol Theater
Governor Ted Strickland gives the keynote address at the opening.
(Cleveland) - The lights are back on at the Capitol Theater!
The historic showplace at West 65th and Detroit celebrated its grand re-opening last night with a cocktail reception. The doors open to the public today.
The 87-year-old Capitol Theater underwent a $7.5 million renovation after being vacant for 23 years.
The theater will focus on art and independent movies on three screens, but will also have Hollywood films. The concessions will feature local pastries, fresh sandwiches and beer along with the normal candy and popcorn.
It will be run by Cleveland Cinemas, which also runs the Cedar-Lee Theater in Cleveland Heights.
The Capitol is the newest and largest investment in the Gordon Square Arts District on Detroit Road. $30 million in investments will help shape the 24-block area which will feature galleries, eateries, boutiques and theaters.
Along with the Capitol, the Cleveland Public Theater is also getting a makeover and a new "Near West Theatre" will be built.
The Capitol began construction in 1920 and was finished in 1921. The main floor will house 400 plush seats, while the balcony will become two, smaller 100 seat theatres.
All digital equipment was installed in the theatres to allow for many different events.
The last performance was a vaudeville show presented by Cleveland Public Theatre in 1985.
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