Future Uncertain For Historic Coliseum Theater
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When the Coliseum Theater opened in Washington Heights in the 1920s, it was the third largest theater in the country, hosting stars like the Marx Brothers and Bob Hope before it was later converted into a movie house, but now it’s closed, leaving community members wondering about what’s next for the space. NY1’s Rebecca Spitz filed the following report.An old movie poster on display makes it pretty clear that Coliseum Cinemas is closed, maybe for good.
The historic theater on 181st Street and Broadway ended its storied run last fall.
"I was kind of surprised and shocked when I walked by in early November and saw that it was closed because it had kind of become a fixture in the neighborhood,” said resident Melissa Moschitto.
BLDG Management, which owns the building, won't let anyone but construction workers in.
But some pictures show hints of the theatre's former glory, and residents like Moschitto hope something can be done to keep them from disappearing.
"It’s right now unused, I guess, preserved space, and it seems to be in really good condition," said Moschitto.
Moschitto is part of a Facebook group with more than 500 members called "Save the Coliseum" to give residents a platform to make their feelings known.
"I would like to see the movie theater, a better movie theater,” said one area resident.
"I hope it turns into something artsy and vibrant or a retail store that we need," said another.
"I would love to see film festivals that cater to the local residents," said a third.
NY1's multiple calls to the landlord were not returned, but the local city council member says they have spoken.
"I asked him if he would be interested in renting the space to whoever is interested in maintaining this space as a movie theater in our community. At that point, he told me that he would be open to any offer,” said City Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez.
Residents say they're hoping the owner will get back to them so they can talk about what will be done with the space.
So far, they say they've heard nothing.