El Capitan Theatre: A Hollywood Classic
Experience the magic of Disney in a historic Hollywood movie palace, where first-run films come to life with spectacular stage shows and timeless elegance, creating unforgettable memories.
The El Capitan Theatre, a fully restored movie palace on Hollywood Boulevard, stands as a testament to Hollywood's glamorous past and enduring appeal. Owned and operated by The Walt Disney Company, the theater is a premier venue for Disney film premieres and screenings, offering a unique and immersive movie-going experience. Originally opened in 1926, the El Capitan began its life as "Hollywood's First Home of Spoken Drama," hosting live performances featuring legendary stars such as Clark Gable, Joan Fontaine and Will Rogers. Real estate developer Charles E. Toberman, known as the "Father of Hollywood," envisioned a thriving theater district and played an integral role in the development of the El Capitan, as well as other iconic Hollywood landmarks like the Roosevelt Hotel and Grauman's Egyptian and Chinese Theatres. The theater's design was a collaboration between the architectural firm Morgan, Walls & Clements, who designed the exterior in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, and G. Albert Lansburgh, who created the lavish interiors. However, the economic pressures of the Great Depression led to a decline in live theater productions. In 1941, the El Capitan screened its first movie, Orson Welles's "Citizen Kane." The following year, the theater underwent a major renovation, transforming into the Hollywood Paramount Theater with a Streamline Moderne design. The theater served as the West Coast flagship for Paramount Pictures until the studio was forced to divest its theater holdings. In the late 1980s, The Walt Disney Company recognized the potential of the El Capitan and embarked on a meticulous restoration project to return the theater to its original 1926 splendor. The restoration involved removing the Streamline Moderne elements and recreating the original Spanish Colonial Revival and East Indian interior designs. The El Capitan reopened in 1991 with a screening of "The Rocketeer," marking a new chapter in its history as Disney's flagship theater in Hollywood. Today, the El Capitan continues to showcase first-run Disney movies, often accompanied by elaborate pre-movie stage shows, live music featuring the theater's Wurlitzer organ, and special effects. These elements combine to create a truly immersive and memorable experience for moviegoers of all ages. The theater also hosts numerous movie premieres, attracting celebrities and fans alike. The El Capitan's architecture is a sight to behold. The exterior boasts a Spanish Colonial Revival style, while the interior features a mix of East Indian, English Tudor, and Italian Baroque designs. The main auditorium is adorned with ornate details, including gilded columns, intricate carvings, and a soaring ceiling. The lower lobby features wood-paneled walls and elegant furnishings, while the facade showcases intricately framed windows and painted Baroque detailing. Beyond the movie screenings and architectural splendor, the El Capitan offers a variety of special events and experiences. These include behind-the-scenes tours, movie-themed parties, and educational programs for children. The theater also participates in community outreach programs, partnering with local organizations to provide access to the arts for underserved populations. The El Capitan Theatre stands as a symbol of Hollywood's golden age, a testament to the power of movies, and a celebration of Disney's enduring legacy. Whether you're a Disney fan, a film buff, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, a visit to the El Capitan Theatre is sure to delight and inspire. The El Capitan is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and a contributor to the Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment National Register Historic District. The continued tradition of themed pre-movie entertainment on the El Capitan's historic stage, organ performances, and the classiness of opening a movie onto several sets of sumptuous grand curtains, helps preserve the early 20th century movie-going experience of the spectacular for generations to come, and adds a touch of real class to Hollywood Boulevard.
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the pre-movie stage show and secure the best seats, as these performances are a highlight of the El Capitan experience.
- Check the El Capitan Theatre's schedule for special events, movie premieres, and themed screenings, which offer unique and memorable experiences.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for popular movies and events, as they tend to sell out quickly.
A brief summary to El Capitan Theatre
- 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, Hollywood, California, 90028, US
- +1818-845-3110
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
The El Capitan Theatre is conveniently accessible via the Metro B Line (Red Line). Exit at the Hollywood/Highland station, which is just a short walk from the theater. From the station, walk east along Hollywood Boulevard. You'll see the El Capitan Theatre on your right, easily recognizable by its bright marquee. A single ride on the Metro costs $1.75.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service, simply provide the address, 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, as your destination. Be aware that traffic on Hollywood Boulevard can be heavy, especially during peak hours and event nights. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a short ride within Hollywood.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that the El Capitan Theatre does not have its own dedicated parking. Several parking lots are available nearby, but they can be expensive, especially during premieres and special events. The closest parking is at 1755, North Highland Avenue, Hollywood, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, 90028, USA. Parking fees typically range from $15-$40 for a few hours. Consider booking a spot in advance through apps like SpotHero or Way.com to secure a space and potentially save money. Metered street parking is also available on nearby streets, but it can be difficult to find and has time restrictions.
