About
Originally opened in 1914 as The National. Three years later, the name was changed to The Regent, as we still know it today. After decades as a grindhouse and adult movie venue, the theater was closed in 2000, only to lay dormant for several years. Six years later, developer Tom Gilmore acquired the property, using it as an occasional art and performance space for the monthly Thursday night Downtown Art Walk. Known for its sloped floor, proscenium archway and gothic-inspired ceiling, The Regent is a true relic and the last remaining historic movie theater on Downtown LA’s Main Street. Music promoter Mitchell Frank, along with Artist and Recreation, LLC, and Knitting Factory Entertainment Inc., took over the lease in 2012 and has restored the theatre to its former glory. Improvements include an update on all interiors, second story mezzanine for killer viewing as well as a pizzeria (Prufrock Pizzeria) and bar (The Love Song).
