Inside Netflix's Restored Egyptian Theatre
Hollywood’s iconic Egyptian Theatre has survived earthquakes, recessions and strikes, as well as a number of remodels. On Nov. 9, Netflix reveals an extensive remodel of the 101-year old theater that will also host screenings for the American Cinematheque.
Among the many changes: the palm tree planters have been removed from the forecourt, allowing more room for red carpets and events, while the removal of the balcony from the auditorium enables better sightlines and better sound. Sound-absorbing plaster also helps improve the Dolby Atmos sound, while projection is available in 35mm and 70mm as well as nitrate – making it one of only five theaters in the country equipped for the vintage format.
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Take a look back at the history of the historic theater and the newly-renovated auditorium, forecourt and lobby, and read more about the restoration here.
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Egyptian Theater in mid-1920s
An premiere at Grauman’s Egyptian in the mid-1920s
Hollywood Boulevard
Benny Rubin’s orchestra was playing in this photo from the late 1920s. The Pig ‘n Whistle Restaurant can be seen at right.
‘The Black Pirate,’ 1926
A model of a pirate ship was installed in the forecourt for Douglas Fairbanks’ “The Black Pirate” in 1926.
‘The Black Pirate’
“The Black Pirate” ship as seen in Netflix’s documentary “Temple of Film: 100 Years of the Egyptian Theatre”
Egyptian Theatre, 1951
The Egyptian, which had undergone a mid-century modern makeover, hosted the premiere of “The Great Caruso” starring Mario Lanza in 1951.
Quentin Tarantino and Pam Greer
Quentin Tarantino and Pam Greer at the 1998 American Cinematheque reopening of the Egyptian, where the restored “Ten Commandments” was screened.
Entrance to Grauman’s Egyptian
Seen at night, the entrance looks much as it would have in 1922.
Egyptian courtyard
The courtyard, built in 1921, was modeled on Egypt’s Temple of Dendur.
The courtyard mural
The courtyard mural was restored with colors closely matching the original ones.
The door and stairway to nowhere
In the Egyptian Theatre Courtyard, restorers reversed the “door to nowhere” and found a pristine surface. The stairway is also just for show.
Details of Egpytian heads
All the period details were carefully restored
Egyptian theatre sign
The renovated sign for the Egyptian Theatre uses colored neon tubes, so the colors can be seen even in daylight. A small Netflix sign below is a discreet nod to the theater’s new owner. The retail spaces on the left will house Netflix-themed activations.
Egyptian Theatre interior
The impressive sunburst ceiling looks out over the stage, which is surrounded by sound-absorbing plaster.
Auditorium seats
The renovated interior with seating for 516 people. Seatbacks are perforated to absorb sound, while cupholders are attached to seatbacks instead of arms to help the vintage look.
The back of the auditorium
The balcony was removed for better sightlines and sound, with the projection booth moved downward to allow the proper angle. Lighting is suspended from wires so as not to disturb the ceiling.
The Egyptian Theatre ceiling
The elaborate ceiling sunburt design is thought to be inspired by the design of an Egyptian necklace.
Concessions stand
The concessions stand is tucked away on the right side of the lobby.
Lobby seating
The renovated lobby features an ornate ceiling and historic displays.
Ceiling and hallway detail
The theater’s new carpet harmonizes with vintage ceiling detail.
