 "Photo: Nate Corley")
With mid-terms finished and finals creeping slowly to the forefront of students minds, sometimes seeing a movie is the perfect release from the stresses of college. Going to the movies shouldn't bring more problems though. The Tivoli Theatre in The Loop is just the place to get away.
From the street the 1920s style is noticeable, from the intricate molding at the top all the way to the outdoor box office at street level. The building was originally built in 1924 and closed in 1994.
The owners of Blueberry Hill bought the building to restore it to its original beauty. On May 19, 1995 the building opened its doors for all to see. The theater was reopened as the three-screen theater today.
Landmark Theatres has operated the theatre for many years, starting in 1977 until 1991 and again from 1999 until present.
The theater has been home of many independent films as well as some big box office hits.
When walking into The Tivoli, there is a more relaxed feeling that can't be found at many competing theaters. The first noticeable things are the movie posters and display cabinets showing off memorabilia from movies, past and present.
The lighting inside is dimmed with large dome chandeliers hanging from an intricate ceiling. All of the molding painted tastefully gives the impression of stepping back in time.
A single concession stand stands on the left between the two restrooms. Alcohol can be purchased by those of age, wine and a few beers are available.
A $4.25 soda and popcorn are also available for those younger than 21, along with Ted Drewes Frozen Custard and coffee.
The people throughout the building are friendly and willing to answer questions about the films showing. There are small tables and chairs sitting in the room, allowing a person to eat there instead of in the movie showing.
After getting a soda or beer, finding a place to sit is easy.
The newer, high-back chairs are comfortable enough to sit in for a long movie. The seats are set in a lower angle stadium style that makes the screen still visible at almost every angle.
One thing that stood out: none of the floors were sticky.
When the movie finishes, it's no wonder that the Riverfront Times gave the theater awards. The Tivoli won the Best Art Cinema award in 2004, Editors’ Choice, Best Movie Theatre from 1996-2004, and Readers Choice from the Riverfront Times. Anyone looking for a chance to see a movie in a relaxed setting should check out The Tivoli. The mixture of independent films and old-time style make this theater a definite win.
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