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Cinerama History

A Popular Theater Since 1963

Combining sleek comfort and futuristic decor with breakthrough advances in motion picture technology, Cinerama opened just a year after the World’s Fair came to town. Over the decades, it became a favorite venue for Seattle moviegoers of all ages, from families to Star Wars buffs who camped out in line for weeks before a premiere.

Grand Opening, 1963

Martin Cinerama opens with The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm. The three-projector Cinerama technology offers audiences a thrillingly immersive visual experience and 7-track stereophonic sound.

From Cinerama to 70mm

Within months of opening, the theater is retrofitted to show single-projector 70mm films, including such hits as It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World and Krakatoa, East of Java.

Disrepair in the '80s and '90s

As suburban multiplexes gain in popularity, Cinerama’s ticket sales decline. By 1997, the theater is in danger of being demolished to make way for new development.

Cinerama Reopens, 1999

Philanthropist and entrepreneur Paul Allen bought the theater and embarked on a multi-million-dollar renovation that includes advanced sound and projection.

First-Run and Film Festivals

Cinerama becomes a destination theater for blockbuster first-run movies, cult classics, and several film festivals, including the Science Fiction, Classic Films, Horror, and 70mm festivals.

2014 Massive Upgrade/Renovation

Cinerama installs a state-of-the-art Christie 6P digital laser projection system, Harkness Matt Plus screen, Dolby Atmos surround sound, Meyer Sound cinema speaker system, and wider seats with more leg room.