Exhibitors Herald (Dec 1924-Mar 1925)

6 BETTER T H E A T R E S SECTION OF February^ 28, 1925 Egyptian Design Used in Theatre Seating 750 at Mesa, Arizona Theatres that are unusual and distinctive are not to be found only in the metropolitan centers. Witness the Nile theatre, Mesa, Arizona, with a seating capacity of 750. Bearing out the import of its name the Nile occupies a distinctive place among small town theatres from any constructional \’iewpoint. As the photographs accompanying reveal, the Egyptimi treatment which is followed throughout the house, starts with the ornamental electric sign on the facade, an original conception by Paul D. Howse of Los Angeles representing two winged Egyptian lions on either end of the sign. The word “Nile” is done in characteristic Egyptian inscription. A brilliant color scheme is used in the lights, and the sign is equipped with a flasher, making it compelling and novel. ^ Motive for construction of a theatre of this type is obvious when it is known that the Salt River Valley of Arizona is considered the only rival of the fertile Nile region. Thus the management conceived the idea of naming the house after the historic river of Egypt and carrying out in detail the Egyptian scheme in its treatment. The Nile occupies a site 50 bv 150 feet. The lobby is done in characteristic Egyptian scarabs and leads into an inner foyer treated in polvchrome tints and embellished with Egvptian heads, cleverly lighted to enhance the mystic atmosphere. The auditorium is spacious and high, with a ceiling beautifully inlaid with open grill work Exterior view of Mesa, Arizona’s Egyptian theatre, the Nile. Note the Egyptian characteristics in the name of the theatre and winged lions on sign. ventilation vents, all executed in the Egyptian scheme. An interesting feature of the Nile is the treatment and location of the organ grill. This, as shown in an accompanying view, is located in front of the stage opening instead of at the sides as is more customary. It is a beautiful example of Egyptian plastic art. While the wall treatment of the auditorium is simple it will be noted that the very nature of the decoration makes it at once unusual and distinctive. On either side, midwav between the floor and the ceiling are cove lights subject to color lighting. These lights are broken at the intersections with Cleopatra Egyptian heads. Unique, and at the same time perfectly conceived, are the “sheik” canopy decorations which are done in imitation of rare old tapestry and were executed by Jack Lorinyrga from photographs which the artist procured on a visit to Egypt. These canopies, which extend from the wall, are supported by spear points at right angles to the surface and encased in the fringe on the canopies are hidden lights which spread a soft glow over the tapestries hung on the walls. These same effects are carried out over the exits. The Nile boasts an adequate stage and well lighted dressing rooms equipped with modem conveniences. The heating and ventilating plant is located under the stage. Another noteworthy feature of the Nile is the front curtain which is a reproduction of a scene in ancient Egypt done in translucent blue, with hazy outlines of the pyramids and foliage of that country. Automatic control operates the curtain. It is the plan of the management to offer prologues in connection with outstanding film production. Comfortably equipped rest rooms for men and women have been provided. These are located at either end of the foyer and are reached by a short stair case. study of the auditorium walls of the Nile showing sheik canopy heads. decorations supported by spear points and Cleopatra