A presentation by Tim Hills, McMenamins Historian
*Event is being held in the Bagdad Theater*
Bagdad Pub |
Sunday, August 16, 2015
10:30 a.m. doors; program at 11 a.m. ‘til 12 noon |
Free |
All ages welcome
About “A History of the Bagdad Theater: Hawthorne’s ‘Oasis of Entertainment’”
Content
From "Her Big Night" on January 14, 1927, to "Fantastic Four" that's playing tonight, the Bagdad Theater has endeared itself to generations of Portlanders, and endured the colossal volatility of the movie industry over the past 88 years.
Few expenses were spared and a church and cider mill were sacrificed to create this Eastside movie palace, dubbed an "Oasis of Entertainment." Capitalized by the deep pockets of Universal Studios, the Bagdad was called "a triumph of artistry and craftsmanship." In 1927, it stood as the city's largest theater outside of downtown.
What followed was an amazing cavalcade of classic and silly movies and vaudeville acts, notable gala movie premieres, remarkable gatherings, art house cinema, multi-plex schlock and so many incredible characters: Jack Nicholson, Carl Laemmle, Sammy Davis, Jr., Tippy the Wonder Dog, Louise Fletcher, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Ken Kesey, Gus Van Sant, Michael Moore, Russ Meyer and Kitten Natividad... and through it all the Bagdad has always been and continues to be the most marvelous host and conspirator!
*This event qualifies for a History Pub experience stamp.
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