RKO Keith's Richmond Hill Theatre

I think I can trace my interst in theaters to the RKO Keiths in Richmond Hill. When I was about 12, occasionally I used to go with my parents to the RKO Keiths in Richmond Hill for the Flea Markets in the mid 80’s. They would go looking at the stuff, and I would go off on my own and explore the theater. The “relic” condition of it fascinated me! The very opulent lobby with the mirrors, chandeliers, and plasterwork, sitting there filthy just fascinated me. Also all the chandeliers along the ceiling up in the balcony. The theater was sort of trashed, but so much of the theater’s glory days was there. Many of the old sconces were lit up on the walls back then, sitting there filthy.
One day during a flea market as a kid, I snuck up to the balcony. All that was stopping me was a chain across the stairs with the ornate railing. I ran up there when no one was looking, and really searched the nooks and crannies. Soot, and years of dust and cobwebs covered everything, including the draperies and crystal chandeliers. I also snuck behind the stage curtain on one trip there. The ornate curtain had been cut, and makeshift doorway put in it.
The ornate paintings and murals all survived way up on the ceiling of the theater, although all the walls were painted beige about halfway up to the ceiling. The proscenium arch was beige on the sides, and the top was still original with gold etching, and all different colors. The theater seemed so interesting because of all the old stuff sitting there, like a diamond in the rough.
I have not been back to the RKO Keith’s in probably at least 15 years, so have no idea what changes (or removal of old stuff) have taken place since back then.
I was sorry to hear that the museum plans fell through, it would have been nice to see the theater restored. At least around 15 years ago, so much of the old theater was still intact (aside from the seats on the main level), so it was very possible to save with restoration unlike so many other theaters. I hope that is still the case today.

I lived in Richmond Hill until I married at age 22….In the fabulous 60’s I went there when the rock band Dave Clark Five were appearing, I remember my older brother holding me and my twin up so we could get a glimpse of them. We always went to Jahn’s Ice Cream Parlor next door. I loved that neighborhood, especially Richmond Hill Library down the block from there. What memories. When I was dating my husband, we would stop in to Glenn’s Tavern across the street from the RKO. Some nights, we had dinner in Salerno’s restaurant. Anyone else have any memories…write me at
Mary Ann Morrongiello (Manders)

The RKO Richmond Hill Theatre once seated 2234 people.

This theater is still standing and remains open. It’s currently being used as a bingo hall and flea market. Although the seats have been removed from the main floor, the theater is otherwise completely intact from the days it functioned as a movie house.