The Alex Theatre
Glendale’s historic 1925 performing arts beacon and architectural jewel
The History of The Alex Theatre
Opening its doors on September 4, 1925, as the Alexander Theatre, this iconic landmark began as a grand vaudeville house and silent movie palace. Built by the West Coast Theatres chain and named after Alexander Lehmkuhl, son of local land developer C.L. Lehmkuhl, the venue quickly became the entertainment hub of Glendale. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Arthur G. Lindley and Charles R. Selkirk, the building originally featured a striking blend of Egyptian Revival and Greek Neoclassical architectural styles, complete with ornate interior plasterwork, atmospheric murals, and a massive 2,000-seat auditorium crafted to deliver extraordinary acoustics for live stage performances and silent cinema organ accompaniment.
In 1940, the theater underwent a dramatic transformation led by legendary movie palace architect S. Charles Lee. Lee modernized the venue by introducing its most famous architectural hallmark: the towering 100-foot art deco neon spire topped with a glowing "starburst" motif, as well as an open-air forecourt leading past classic tilework and an exterior box office. Throughout Hollywood’s Golden Age, the Alex served as a high-profile preview theater where major studios like Warner Bros., MGM, and Universal hosted glamourous star-studded test screenings for cinematic classics, including National Velvet and Meet Me in St. Louis, using audience reactions from Glendale theatergoers to finalize film edits.
By the late 1980s, after decades of changing moviegoer habits, the venue fell into financial decline and faced potential demolition. Recognizing its irreplaceable heritage, the City of Glendale’s Redevelopment Agency stepped in, acquiring the venue in 1992. A comprehensive multi-million dollar restoration campaign breathed new life into the structure, restoring its Art Deco marquee, repainting its interior proscenium arch, and expanding backstage facilities. Today, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Alex Theatre stands fully revitalized as a state-of-the-art regional performing arts venue hosting over 100 live events annually.
1925 — Grand Opening
Opens as the Alexander Theatre, operating as a premiere vaudeville and silent movie palace featuring Egyptian Revival architecture.
1940 — S. Charles Lee Redesign
Architect S. Charles Lee adds the iconic 100-foot Art Deco neon spire, open forecourt, and sleek modern marquee.
1992–1993 — Municipal Acquisition & Restoration
Acquired by the City of Glendale and restored to its original splendor, expanding the stage for live performing arts.
Present — Cultural Hub
Operates as a vibrant performing arts center for orchestral concerts, film screenings, dance recitals, and TV shoots.
Things to Do at the Alex
Located on bustling Brand Boulevard in Downtown Glendale, the Alex Theatre offers a world-class spectrum of cultural programming and neighborhood entertainment. Visiting the venue allows guests to immerse themselves in history while enjoying modern performing arts:
- Attend Live Orchestral & Symphony Performances: Experience incredible acoustic performances by resident companies, including the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO) and the Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA).
- Enjoy Historic Film Screenings: Take in classic Hollywood films, silent movies accompanied by live organ music, or indie film retrospectives hosted in the theater’s vast, historic auditorium.
- Catch Dance Recitals & Cultural Shows: Enjoy vibrant multi-cultural ballet performances, traditional international dance troupes, comedy tours, and musical theater productions throughout the season.
- Dine & Explore Downtown Glendale: Pair your theater outing with dinner or drinks along Brand Boulevard, featuring walkable outdoor dining, craft cocktail lounges, and boutique shopping right outside the marquee.
- Admire the Art Deco Architecture: Take time before the show to admire the 100-foot neon starburst spire, the outdoor terrazzo courtyard, and the fully restored 1920s interior lobby detailing.
Tips Before You Visit
To ensure a seamless evening out at the Alex Theatre, consider these essential travel, ticketing, and parking recommendations before attending your performance:
- Book Tickets in Advance: Popular concerts and seasonal shows sell out quickly. Purchase tickets through the official Alex Theatre box office or online platform ahead of time.
- Park in Nearby City Garages: Utilize convenient validation-supported municipal parking structures nearby, such as the Orange Street Garage (222 N. Orange St.) or Exchange Garage (115 N. Maryland Ave.), both within easy walking distance.
- Arrive Early for Courtyard Seating: Doors typically open one hour prior to showtime. Arriving early gives you time to enjoy refreshments in the open-air forecourt and explore the lobby.
- Plan for Downtown Traffic: Traffic on the I-5 and CA-134 freeways can be heavy during weekday evening rush hours—allow extra time when driving in for evening curtain calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your first visit to the landmark? Here are answers to common questions regarding logistics, accessibility, and venue policies at the Alex Theatre.
Where is the Alex Theatre located in Glendale?
The theater is located in the heart of Downtown Glendale at 216 North Brand Boulevard, Glendale, CA 91203, situated between Wilson Avenue and California Avenue.
Is the Alex Theatre ADA accessible?
Yes. The theater offers accessible seating options on the main floor, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and designated drop-off areas near the forecourt entrance on Brand Boulevard.
Can I tour the interior without attending a show?
Public tours are occasionally offered by The Glendale Historical Society and venue operators during special events or open-house days. Check local historical society schedules for upcoming tour dates.
Is the venue available for private event rentals or filming?
Yes. The Alex Theatre is frequently rented for private corporate events, filming shoots, television specials, music videos, and private screenings through venue management.