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October 5 , 19 29
1227
Auditorium os It Looks Since Remodelling
HARMANUS-BLEECKER HALL REMODELLED
Famous Albany Theatre Built In 1888 Rejuvenated And Now Operates As First Run
Motion Picture Playhouse
AS an example of what can be done in remodeling and modernizing an old theatre, C. H. Buckley presented Harmanus-Bleecker Hall, in Albany, N. Y., to the theatregoers of that city on Labor Day, and scored one of the most remarkable theatre openings in the State.
The theatre was scheduled to open at to A. M. on Labor Day morning, a day when the mercury mounted quickly to the nineties, and a day on which a great majority of persons travel. Despite the heat there were over 2,000 persons in line in front of the theatre when the box-office opened.
Although the house accommodates 2,200 persons, the crowds were so large during the day it became necessary to turn thousands away, but these were later on accommodated during the week when a new record in attendance was hung up for this district.
Harmanus-Bleecker Hall was built back in 1888. and was owned for a number of years by the late F. F. Proctor, being bought by Mr. Bucklev last June for a price said to be in the neighborhood of $400,000. The theatre is rather peculiarly located, being neither a downtown house nor a strictly residential one. It had been operated as a double feature second-run house until Mr. Buckley took it over, and decided to operate it as a first-run theatre in direct competition to those in the business center.
In its remodeled form the theatre is one of the most attractive houses in this section of New York State. Artists were brought from Boston, and the entire interior was redecorated in a combination of brown and gold, subdued with deep tones of blue, red and green. All furnishings were new. The entire system of lighting was changed, adding much to the attractiveness of the theatre. In the lobby there is a statue in bronze which came from the London home of Baron Roths-hild, a well-known figure for years in international banking circles. There are two carved urns of bronze and gold at the entrance which came from the gardens of Fontainbleau in Paris.
Over thirty baskets of flowers were received by Mr. Buckley on the day of the opening. In addition to the opening feature, which was "The Cock-Eyed World," Mr. Buckley presented Herb Gordon and his orchestra, which is playing at the Hotel Ten Eyck roof. Among those present on the opening day was Mrs. Milton Schwartz, daughter of William Fox. who was passing through Albany on her way home.
Mr. Buckley has fixed his admission prices at 35 and 50 cents, and his policy will be straight week runs. Alec Sayles, who has been promoted to general manager of the Buckley chain of houses, will make his headquarters at the theatre .