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by Tamar Love Grande
Published 2003 on CitySearch.com
One of the last great independent movie palaces,
the legendary Grand Lake Theater shows first-run flicks nightly.
A Sense of History
Built in 1926, the Grand Lake
was a paradise to Depression-era Oaklanders, who gathered
nightly to revive flagging spirits with a healthy dose of
movies, shows and live concerts. The velvet-bedecked theater
has been a mainstay despite the ever-changing climate of Grand
Avenue, which just may be undergoing another renaissance.
Today's moviegoers will delight in relatively low prices, a
gorgeous lighted marquee and nubby red seats with cup holders.
Modern Problems
Often voted "Best Theater of
the East Bay," the Grand Lake has had its share of recent
problems: Drugs, crime and traffic in the surrounding
neighborhood have caused this destination theater's attendance
to drop somewhat. Rumors of an impending sale haven't helped,
but if the right buyer bites, the city's planned restoration
of the area should help return the Grand Lake to its former
splendor.
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