Speakeasy Theaters is an independent movie theater operator. Currently, they operate two theaters, the Parkway theater in Oakland, California and the Cerrito in El Cerrito, California. Both theaters show late first-run movies (films still in release that have gotten cheaper to exhibit) and various special event programs. Due to the serving of beer and wine, attendance at most films is restricted to age 21 and over (IDs are checked), although weekend matinees and some special events are open to people of all ages. On March 22, 2009, the Parkway theater will be going out of business.[1][2]
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Theater Histories
Both venues are converted theaters with histories. The Parkway Theater was in disrepair when the Speakeasy Theater took it over and converted the seating, created the kitchen, and opened their unique offering of late first-run movies, seating, food and beverages. The theater style turned out to be successful, and many movies and events are well attended. The management tries to be responsive to the neighborhood and patron community, and offers special screenings for political, social, and popular events (including screenings of the Super Bowl and the Academy Awards).
The Cerrito Theater had been closed for decades when a group of locals developed funding to rehab it to its historic art deco beauty (see Friends of the Cerrito Theater below). As construction started, the Speakeasy Theaters were chosen as the organization to run the venue.
Unique seating options
Each of the Speakeasy Theaters offer unconventional seating, including couches and small tables. Each theater is slightly different in size and style of seating offered. Frequent patrons often develop a favorite theater based on seating arrangements, and movies are usually rotated from upstairs to downstairs so you can wait for your movie to show in your preferred theater.
Food and drink
The theaters are notable for selling beer and wine. They also offer restaurant style food including pizza, sandwiches, and other appetizers and entrees. They offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan foods. Food is ordered at the concession counter on your way in, then brought to your seat/table when it is prepared. Patrons receive a mildly glow-in-the-dark number to help the staff find you during the movie. Beverages are provided at the time they are ordered.
Baby Brigade
The Parkway location was well-known locally for a weekly event called The Baby Brigade, where infants under 1 year of age are welcomed (but not required). This event is now held on Tuesdays at The Cerrito, which is normally a slow day for theaters.
References
- ^ "Welcome to the Parkway". http://www.parkway-speakeasy.com/index.php.
- ^ Carolyn Jones, "Oakland's Parkway Theater Closing", San Francisco Chronicle (March 20, 2009), page B-1
External links
Categories: Movie theatre chains in the United States
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