Perhaps Mr. Hall could satisfy my curiosity about the Capitol’s backstage. The stage portion had limited debth with exits on either side. Were the stage rooms located in the basement? I recall a track curtain with limited use prior to the big screen era. Then, as previously mentioned, a vertical curtain was installed because the newer screen had to be placed over the narrow prosenium in order to clear the exits.
Many improvements are being made to the exterior, including the attached apartments. I’ve tried to gain entrance to the auditorium but have been unable to find anyone available. Guess I’ll have to attend a service. Well, maybe. I’ll leave it to Theater Boy instead. What a cop out, huh?
I guess with competition from Showcase Cinemas at Eastfield and West Springfield, plus dwindling movie attendance there’s not a piece of the pie for everyone.
Steve, the Student Prince still serves the best of everything, not just fried cheese. Rudy Jr. has continued the tradition of Rudy Sr. Love that place and Theodore’s Blues & food. See the Sunday paper? Raymour & Flannigan wants to build on the site of the former Palace Theater. You came to mind over the weekend. I told my lady friend that I’d like to see “Good Night, Good Luck” at the Academy of Music in ‘Hamp. She was surprised, not because of the movie, but because of the venue. I immediately thought of the Victory. What a great house to view this movie because that’s what movie palaces looked like during the early '50’s. I think if Holyoke could develop an entertainment zone first with good night spots and restaurants, ala Kelly’s, Gleasons, etc. drawing people downtown, the Victory with creative support could make it. Ok, ok, I’ll kick in a buck. But it’s your dime!
Was this theater next to the Regal? I recall back in the ‘50’s coming into the Northern end and seeing 2 boarded up theaters across from a large tire store. Believe it was Goodyear. I’ve been racking my brain to recall these theaters.
Hi Ko! I did see a movie at the Victory. ‘Pete & Tilly’ with Walter Matheow and Carol Burnette around 1975. Yes, I’m an old fart. We had dinner at Kelly’s Lobster House and walked at night to the Victory after dinner. Probably before you were born. Would I do that tonight? Well, aside from the fact that Kelly’s burned down 10 years ago, probably. It may surprise you, but I do have Hispanic friends there. Frankly, I wouldn’t feel any safer in dowtown Springfield. Hear about the shootings near the Mass. Mutual Ctr? At least that place was developed with private funds. Hey, $1.10 is better in my pocket than a boarded up box.
There is much work being done, especially the exterior. I saw roofers working and windows in the small vacant retail shops replaced. The marquee has been taken down revealing the orginal one. The classic ticket booth, gone! Hopefully, these items will be preserved. The entranceway looks like a black hole now. Hopefully, that will change soon. I kind of think Konrad W. is taking the conservative route financially and doing gradual reconstruction.
During the mid to late ‘50’s the Fenway and Paramount ran the same features. The newspapers always listed the Paramount and Fenway in the same block ads. Either they had an agreement or were managed by the same company. I do recall this arrangement ending early in 1960 when art films were exhibited.
Sorry. I was actually having respect for Mr. Ko’s comments until his ignorance confused prejudice with fiscal responsibility and personal safety. Typical of those poor souls who use political correctness as blinders.
I was in the area recently and noticed that the building now houses a Pentecostal church. Guess that answers the question on whether the auditorium is intact.
Also, I had the wrong location in my original post. It was on Rt.9, not 116. I think R.Noyes is more accurate on the closing approximation than mine. Early 80’s sounds right.
I would guess during the mid to late ‘80’s. There was a crafts type store on that site until around 2004. I believe there is a second hand charity shop there presently.
Interesting points. Why would the 128 degree curved screen even be considered? Aren’t we talking about ‘live’ performing arts? Movies are across the street. A smaller screen would work for occasional viewings. No stage, no storage space, no changing rooms? Ever been to the self supporting, non taxpayer funded, Majectic Theatre Project located about a mile away? That was a small neighborhood movehouse with basically a platform for a stage. I remember working there as a kid. There was room for a row of trash cans behind the screen. They have been doing productions since 1997. I am not denying that the former Palace will need modificaions such as a stage. The auditorium has enough space to be narrowed allowing production facilities occupying the full length of the theater. The mammoth lobby could be modified providing rehearsal halls, classrooms, etc. Like the Majestic, a balcony could be added. Plenty of parking. Decent hotels and restaurants nearby. I can appreciate wanting to revert back to the past, such as the Victory. If part of my tax dollar is going to fund projects I want to see the potential for a sure thing. Just wondering. Who would feel more secure leaving a performance at 10:30pm. Mr. Ko in downtown Holyoke or Mr. Larkin at the Riverdale Shops in West Springfield?
I reall a theater on the left side of Rt. 9 just prior to bearing left on to Huntington Ave, Boston. I am not sure if this area was considered Brookline or Boston. I also don’t recall the name. There was an old bank building to the left. This goes way back to the late ‘50’s – early '60’s and I don’t ever recall the place being open during that time. It was finally demolished and I believe high rises built on the site. Does this jog anyone’s memory?
At least the Palace isn’t in deplorable condition in the middle of a blighted area. I am well aware that it was designed for motion pictures only. I feel that the building could be modified for live performances. Consider the location. In a commercially developed area. Plenty of exposure with the amount of traffic. What does the Victory offer? A downtown with plenty of business, drugs and robbery type. I am quite sure the current owner of the Loews would be willing to negotiate a sale or lease of the facility.
During my stay in Boston, ‘59-'60, the Loews State had just closed. The other choices in the area were the Fenway, Uptown and Exeter. I remember walking down Boylston and thinking there should be at least one theater in between the above. In fact, I had always thought an area across from the 'Pru construction would be a good location. Ironically, that is where the Paris was built. Visiting Boston many times, we attended the Paris. Never did attend the Cheree.
In the Library of Congress pictures provided by Mr. Krefft, looking in the direction of the projection booth, doesn’t it appear that there are 3 sets portholes instead of the usual two? I also found it interesting that, apparently, the stage had a vertical instead of track curtain. About a year ago I checked out the marquee prior to a tour of the Colonial. Impressive.
The Springfield Republican featured the Bing in an article today. The Bing opened on Christmas Day, 1950. Work is progressing by volunteers. Neighbors are hoping that its revival will do the same for the neighborhood. I can recall a time when attending a movie at the Bing was a real treat because it was Springfield’s newest theater in 18 years. It held that status until 1965 when the Showcase Cinemas were constructed.
I believe that Ron Newman’s account of the E.M.Loew’s St. James preceeding the Loew’s State is accurate. But, comparing the two theaters would lead one to believe they were of the same ownership, which they were not. The former was part of the E.M. Loew’s chain based in Boston. The latter was part of the New York based Loew’s Corporation of New York.
50 Grand has been appropriated by our legislators to conduct a study on what to do with this place. I can save the taxpayers $$$$ by publishing my own study, right now. Downtown Holyoke is a lost cause. This structure could be totally reconstructed and it would still stand in the middle of blight. It seems that Massachusetts Federal and State politicians must toss funding for studies of pet renovation projects (pork barrel) in various communities just for the publicity. As previously posted, I feel that those interested in cultural development merge and concentrate on one facility. The former E.M. Loews in West Springfield? I believe that the former Paramount Theater, now Hippodrome in Springfield, was totally refurbished with private funds. Shouldn’t that be the rule?
Joe, as you described the condition of the Palace I knew that it had to be a Western Mass. Theater. All of their theaters were neglected in the same manner. If only Nathan Goldstein could see what his beneficiary did to his theaters, ah, perhaps not.
Perhaps Mr. Hall could satisfy my curiosity about the Capitol’s backstage. The stage portion had limited debth with exits on either side. Were the stage rooms located in the basement? I recall a track curtain with limited use prior to the big screen era. Then, as previously mentioned, a vertical curtain was installed because the newer screen had to be placed over the narrow prosenium in order to clear the exits.
Many improvements are being made to the exterior, including the attached apartments. I’ve tried to gain entrance to the auditorium but have been unable to find anyone available. Guess I’ll have to attend a service. Well, maybe. I’ll leave it to Theater Boy instead. What a cop out, huh?
I guess with competition from Showcase Cinemas at Eastfield and West Springfield, plus dwindling movie attendance there’s not a piece of the pie for everyone.
Originally farmland. Great irrigation being next to the Connecticut River. Then a small airport followed by the drive-in.
Steve, the Student Prince still serves the best of everything, not just fried cheese. Rudy Jr. has continued the tradition of Rudy Sr. Love that place and Theodore’s Blues & food. See the Sunday paper? Raymour & Flannigan wants to build on the site of the former Palace Theater. You came to mind over the weekend. I told my lady friend that I’d like to see “Good Night, Good Luck” at the Academy of Music in ‘Hamp. She was surprised, not because of the movie, but because of the venue. I immediately thought of the Victory. What a great house to view this movie because that’s what movie palaces looked like during the early '50’s. I think if Holyoke could develop an entertainment zone first with good night spots and restaurants, ala Kelly’s, Gleasons, etc. drawing people downtown, the Victory with creative support could make it. Ok, ok, I’ll kick in a buck. But it’s your dime!
Also known as the Victoria.
Was this theater next to the Regal? I recall back in the ‘50’s coming into the Northern end and seeing 2 boarded up theaters across from a large tire store. Believe it was Goodyear. I’ve been racking my brain to recall these theaters.
Hi Ko! I did see a movie at the Victory. ‘Pete & Tilly’ with Walter Matheow and Carol Burnette around 1975. Yes, I’m an old fart. We had dinner at Kelly’s Lobster House and walked at night to the Victory after dinner. Probably before you were born. Would I do that tonight? Well, aside from the fact that Kelly’s burned down 10 years ago, probably. It may surprise you, but I do have Hispanic friends there. Frankly, I wouldn’t feel any safer in dowtown Springfield. Hear about the shootings near the Mass. Mutual Ctr? At least that place was developed with private funds. Hey, $1.10 is better in my pocket than a boarded up box.
There is much work being done, especially the exterior. I saw roofers working and windows in the small vacant retail shops replaced. The marquee has been taken down revealing the orginal one. The classic ticket booth, gone! Hopefully, these items will be preserved. The entranceway looks like a black hole now. Hopefully, that will change soon. I kind of think Konrad W. is taking the conservative route financially and doing gradual reconstruction.
During the mid to late ‘50’s the Fenway and Paramount ran the same features. The newspapers always listed the Paramount and Fenway in the same block ads. Either they had an agreement or were managed by the same company. I do recall this arrangement ending early in 1960 when art films were exhibited.
Sorry. I was actually having respect for Mr. Ko’s comments until his ignorance confused prejudice with fiscal responsibility and personal safety. Typical of those poor souls who use political correctness as blinders.
I was in the area recently and noticed that the building now houses a Pentecostal church. Guess that answers the question on whether the auditorium is intact.
Also, I had the wrong location in my original post. It was on Rt.9, not 116. I think R.Noyes is more accurate on the closing approximation than mine. Early 80’s sounds right.
I would guess during the mid to late ‘80’s. There was a crafts type store on that site until around 2004. I believe there is a second hand charity shop there presently.
Interesting points. Why would the 128 degree curved screen even be considered? Aren’t we talking about ‘live’ performing arts? Movies are across the street. A smaller screen would work for occasional viewings. No stage, no storage space, no changing rooms? Ever been to the self supporting, non taxpayer funded, Majectic Theatre Project located about a mile away? That was a small neighborhood movehouse with basically a platform for a stage. I remember working there as a kid. There was room for a row of trash cans behind the screen. They have been doing productions since 1997. I am not denying that the former Palace will need modificaions such as a stage. The auditorium has enough space to be narrowed allowing production facilities occupying the full length of the theater. The mammoth lobby could be modified providing rehearsal halls, classrooms, etc. Like the Majestic, a balcony could be added. Plenty of parking. Decent hotels and restaurants nearby. I can appreciate wanting to revert back to the past, such as the Victory. If part of my tax dollar is going to fund projects I want to see the potential for a sure thing. Just wondering. Who would feel more secure leaving a performance at 10:30pm. Mr. Ko in downtown Holyoke or Mr. Larkin at the Riverdale Shops in West Springfield?
I reall a theater on the left side of Rt. 9 just prior to bearing left on to Huntington Ave, Boston. I am not sure if this area was considered Brookline or Boston. I also don’t recall the name. There was an old bank building to the left. This goes way back to the late ‘50’s – early '60’s and I don’t ever recall the place being open during that time. It was finally demolished and I believe high rises built on the site. Does this jog anyone’s memory?
At least the Palace isn’t in deplorable condition in the middle of a blighted area. I am well aware that it was designed for motion pictures only. I feel that the building could be modified for live performances. Consider the location. In a commercially developed area. Plenty of exposure with the amount of traffic. What does the Victory offer? A downtown with plenty of business, drugs and robbery type. I am quite sure the current owner of the Loews would be willing to negotiate a sale or lease of the facility.
During my stay in Boston, ‘59-'60, the Loews State had just closed. The other choices in the area were the Fenway, Uptown and Exeter. I remember walking down Boylston and thinking there should be at least one theater in between the above. In fact, I had always thought an area across from the 'Pru construction would be a good location. Ironically, that is where the Paris was built. Visiting Boston many times, we attended the Paris. Never did attend the Cheree.
In the Library of Congress pictures provided by Mr. Krefft, looking in the direction of the projection booth, doesn’t it appear that there are 3 sets portholes instead of the usual two? I also found it interesting that, apparently, the stage had a vertical instead of track curtain. About a year ago I checked out the marquee prior to a tour of the Colonial. Impressive.
The Springfield Republican featured the Bing in an article today. The Bing opened on Christmas Day, 1950. Work is progressing by volunteers. Neighbors are hoping that its revival will do the same for the neighborhood. I can recall a time when attending a movie at the Bing was a real treat because it was Springfield’s newest theater in 18 years. It held that status until 1965 when the Showcase Cinemas were constructed.
Interesting! Was Marcus Loew’s theaters a chain in addition to E.M. Loews and Loews?
I believe that Ron Newman’s account of the E.M.Loew’s St. James preceeding the Loew’s State is accurate. But, comparing the two theaters would lead one to believe they were of the same ownership, which they were not. The former was part of the E.M. Loew’s chain based in Boston. The latter was part of the New York based Loew’s Corporation of New York.
Gaiety, R.I.P. Let’s get on with life. Old building, served purpose. Property tax revenue from development.
50 Grand has been appropriated by our legislators to conduct a study on what to do with this place. I can save the taxpayers $$$$ by publishing my own study, right now. Downtown Holyoke is a lost cause. This structure could be totally reconstructed and it would still stand in the middle of blight. It seems that Massachusetts Federal and State politicians must toss funding for studies of pet renovation projects (pork barrel) in various communities just for the publicity. As previously posted, I feel that those interested in cultural development merge and concentrate on one facility. The former E.M. Loews in West Springfield? I believe that the former Paramount Theater, now Hippodrome in Springfield, was totally refurbished with private funds. Shouldn’t that be the rule?
Joe, as you described the condition of the Palace I knew that it had to be a Western Mass. Theater. All of their theaters were neglected in the same manner. If only Nathan Goldstein could see what his beneficiary did to his theaters, ah, perhaps not.