Where Past Meets Popcorn: The Ruby Theatre in Chelan
The Lookout at Lake Chelan is bound to captivate you with its stunning views of the lake, comfortable places to stay, and endless exciting things to do that make for the ultimate escape. Yet just a short drive away is one of the region’s top hidden gems, a place where Chelan’s unique past meets modern-day entertainment: the Ruby Theatre in Chelan! This more than century-old theater isn’t only a place to see a movie, but a spot where history merges with small-town charm and architecture. Here’s everything you need to know about the Ruby Theatre in Chelan:
A Humble Beginning
The Ruby Theatre in Chelan opened in 1914 and is believed to be the oldest continuously operating theater in Washington State! It’s one of several Chelan buildings that was built by brothers Herbert R. and Morrison M. Kingman, and was named after the daughter of the theater’s original manager. The cost to erect the theater was $6,500 and it was advertised as being the superior option to existing theaters of the time.
When the theater opened, it was seen as one of the architectural gems of Chelan. At the time, only a handful of photohouses had been built specifically for the purpose of showing films as movies were usually shown in spaces that had other uses. The original amenities included a lobby, a projection booth, balcony seating, an orchestra pit, electric lights, and central heating.
Architectural Allure & Historic Heart
When you enter the Ruby Theatre in Chelan, you’re stepping foot in a piece of history frozen in time. It’s a rectangular shape featuring a horseshoe balcony that gives guests a great view of the screen. The original main floor accommodated 225 guests while the balcony could hold another 125 in steel framed opera chairs. The Ruby features a few surviving features of early 20th-century photoplay houses, such as tin ceilings and ornate details.
By 1947, the exterior of the Ruby Theatre in Chelan received a makeover that updated the facade while keeping most of the structure’s original appeal. Through the years small updates have been made, but for the most part, it remains similar to its original look and feel.
Updates Through the Years
In 1930, the theater began showing its first “talkies”. In 1947, a new and improved sound system and projector were installed. These would last until 1999 when they were upgraded once again with a Dolby sound system and digital projection. Additional upgrades to keep the theater up with the times include updated concessions, new bathrooms, and modern projection technology.
A Community & Cultural Center
To this day, the Ruby Theatre in Chelan stands as the town’s only movie theater! In 1989 community members saved the theater from foreclosure, ensuring its preservation as a cultural landmark of Chelan. It’s more than just a place to see films; it’s a community center that hosts concerts, workshops, special events, and more these days.
A Step Back in Time for Visitors
A visit to the Ruby Theatre in Chelan today is like traveling back in time! It delivers an authenticity and intimacy that you won’t find at any modern-day theater. It’s the connection to Chelan’s fascinating history, where you can enjoy movies the way they were meant to be enjoyed in the early days!
Ruby Theatre in Chelan Today
If you have some free time on your trip, make sure to visit the Ruby Theatre in Chelan! It’s just a short drive from The Lookout at Lake Chelan and it makes a great place to have a relaxing time while enjoying entertainment combined with local history and culture. Whether you see a first-run film, a live performance, or a special event, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. If you still need a place to stay on your visit, be sure to browse our Lake Chelan vacation rentals!
