The Loew’s Kings Theatre, built in 1929, was one of the most luxurious theaters in the United States. Designed by Rapp & Rapp with interior design by Harold W. Rambusch, it was one of the five original “Loew’s Wonder Theatres” intended for both movies and live performances. The theater officially opened on September 7th, 1929 with the screening of Evangeline.
However, the theater fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned. It was not until recently that the theater underwent a $95 million restoration project to return it to its former glory. Plaster and painting schemes were restored, vintage carpet and seating were recreated, and historic lighting fixtures were renovated and re-installed. New, modern building systems were also added, including new HVAC, expanded restrooms and concessions facilities, and improved staging and dressing rooms.
The restoration of the theater marks the revival of a historic venue and the transformation into a state-of-the-art live performances theater. It is expected to revitalize the Brooklyn arts scene and provide an economic boost to the Flatbush Avenue business district and the surrounding region.
Despite the renovations, some say that the theater is still haunted by the spirit of a long-time theater attendee. According to local legend, the ghostly figure of the theater attendee can often be seen wandering the halls of the empty theater, as if still looking for the perfect seat to enjoy a performance. Some people have even reported seeing the ghostly figure sitting in the audience, watching the nonexistent performances with a contented look on its face.
Many people who have visited the theater claim to have felt a sense of unease in the presence of the ghost, as if it were watching them intently. Some have even reported hearing the ghostly sound of applause coming from the empty seats, as if the spirit were enjoying a show that only it could see.
Despite these eerie encounters, many people are drawn to the Loew’s Kings Theater because of its rich history and reputation as a hub of supernatural activity. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there’s no denying that the spirit of the theater attendee adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the old movie palace.
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