does anyone remember the lower lobby portion (downstairs) of the Penn Theater? I seemed to remember going to a few films there in the early 60’s, and seem to recall a pretty good sized water fountain in the middle of the lower lobby—not a fountain you drink from, just a decorative flowing one. Any information? Or, am i confusing this with another downtown theater in the 60’s?
hey WarnerChatham—just wondering who you are, because I also worked at the Chatham during the 80’s, as it’s manager. I also managed the Shadyside Theater, from 1972 until it closed, and managed the Fiesta also….I’m sure I can add some info on many of the downtown theaters, since I spent most of my early years managing most of these theaters. Just curious to see if you worked for me. I also keep in touch with the few managers that are still alive. You can email me at .
Although this theater did indeed resort to running soft core sex films as it was near closing, it’s past history as Pittsburgh’s premier art house theater should also be noted. This theater actually gained a reputation for running films that no one else wanted to bring into Pittsburgh. It was noted for the early British comedies, such as the “Carry-On” franchise. It ran such imported features such as “Blow-Up”, “The Night Porter” and Jacques Tati Films. It also ran a unique film subscription series from the American Film Institute. Subtitled movies from all over the globe were the rule rather than the exception at this little gem of a movie house. Along with the Guild Theater, The Forum, and The Pittsburgh Playhouse, Pittsburghers certainly had a unique and viable alternatives to suit their film tastes, too bad these great venues are no more, they are indeed Cinema Treasures.
does anyone remember the lower lobby portion (downstairs) of the Penn Theater? I seemed to remember going to a few films there in the early 60’s, and seem to recall a pretty good sized water fountain in the middle of the lower lobby—not a fountain you drink from, just a decorative flowing one. Any information? Or, am i confusing this with another downtown theater in the 60’s?
hey WarnerChatham—just wondering who you are, because I also worked at the Chatham during the 80’s, as it’s manager. I also managed the Shadyside Theater, from 1972 until it closed, and managed the Fiesta also….I’m sure I can add some info on many of the downtown theaters, since I spent most of my early years managing most of these theaters. Just curious to see if you worked for me. I also keep in touch with the few managers that are still alive. You can email me at .
Although this theater did indeed resort to running soft core sex films as it was near closing, it’s past history as Pittsburgh’s premier art house theater should also be noted. This theater actually gained a reputation for running films that no one else wanted to bring into Pittsburgh. It was noted for the early British comedies, such as the “Carry-On” franchise. It ran such imported features such as “Blow-Up”, “The Night Porter” and Jacques Tati Films. It also ran a unique film subscription series from the American Film Institute. Subtitled movies from all over the globe were the rule rather than the exception at this little gem of a movie house. Along with the Guild Theater, The Forum, and The Pittsburgh Playhouse, Pittsburghers certainly had a unique and viable alternatives to suit their film tastes, too bad these great venues are no more, they are indeed Cinema Treasures.