Moviegoing in America: Nickelodeons to Movie Palaces to IMAX

Darien Library hosts a presentation on the fascinating history of movie theaters and examine how the experience of moviegoing has changed over the decades. Brian Rose, Ph.D. will lead this virtual event on Tuesday, February 17 at 7 p.m. Register on Darien Library’s website at darienlibrary.org/event/4821. 

Ever since the movie industry was born in the 1890s, audiences have thrilled to watch stories come to life on the big screen. At first, this screen wasn’t very big—nor was attending the stuffy local nickelodeon all that pleasant. But by the 1920s, extravagant movie palaces were constructed in downtowns all over the country and moviegoing was transformed into a luxury experience. Sadly, this would end in the 1950s with the rise of the suburbs and the explosion of drive-in theaters, followed by shopping mall multiplexes. 

About Brian Rose

Brian Rose, Ph.D. was a Professor of Communication and Media Studies for 38 years at Fordham University's College at Lincoln Center until his recent retirement. He has written several books on television history and cultural programming. He has conducted more than one hundred Q & As with leading directors, actors, and writers for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, The Screen Actors Guild, The British Academy of Film & Television Arts, and The Directors Guild of America.

 

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Submitted by Darien, CT

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