Richmond’s historic theaters don’t just feed the city’s economy, they feed the city’s soul—preserving the vintage charm that makes Richmond so unique. In the early 20th century, Richmond introduced the Altria Theater, Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center, and Byrd Theatre (under different names) amid a booming entertainment industry.
Today, the Altria Theater and Carpenter Theatre are debuting $2.5 million in upgrades, spearheaded by venue management company Legends Global. Meanwhile, Carytown’s beloved Byrd Theatre says hello to very welcome seat renovations.
Elevating The Altria Theater Experience
At the heart of Virginia Commonwealth University’s campus, the Altria Theater is a popular landmark and must-visit for Richmonders and tourists alike. Opened in 1927, the theater reflects the glitz and glamour of the 1920s in its intricate architectural and decorative details, from crown molding to gorgeous murals.
When there’s an event at Altria, whether it be live music, comedy, or acrobatics, the whole city knows: excited, well-dressed crowds swarm downtown’s Laurel Street. Legends Global saw a vital need to make entry more efficient—and has now done so, introducing frictionless security detectors, a new bag policy (no bags over 12 x 8 x 6-inch, with exemptions for medical and diaper bags), modern ticket scanners, and Wi-Fi-enabled systems.
Carpenter Theatre System Enhancements
Dominion Energy Center houses the historic Carpenter Theatre, which opened in 1928. Like the Altria, the Carpenter is gorgeously gilded from ceiling to floor and outwardly stunning in its Spanish and Moorish Revival style.
The Carpenter has rolled out the same entry improvements as the Altria, along with modernized elevators to improve accessibility and lighting and sound developments. Audiences can now enjoy a German-engineered, high-resolution audio system designed specifically for the 1,800-seat theater. Additionally, a Yamaha digital mixing console and new lighting control system give technicians expanded creative control while supporting touring productions.
The theater donated its former PA system to Gallery5, a Richmond nonprofit known for eclectic performances and art programming.
Improved Comfort at Byrd Theatre
Founded in 1928, Carytown’s Byrd Theatre is a local favorite cinema showcasing classics, new releases, arthouse films, and documentaries. Many aspects of the Byrd have remained the same since its opening, including its old-fashioned curtain reveal and its seating.
To enhance comfort without losing historic charm, the Byrd has just completed a years-long effort to replace seat backs and bottoms while restoring the original cast iron aisle standards and adding wider armrests. The seat replacement finished this September, welcoming moviegoers with plush cushioning and a return to full capacity at 930 seats, plus accessible accommodation areas.
Thanks to the new seating improvements, you can enjoy your film without worrying about leaving with a stiff back!
Featured photo of the Carpenter Theatre by Lindsey O’Neill
