Not only is the theatre well preserved but it has managed to retain its Art Deco originality throughout, from the marquee sign out front to the wonderful murals and ornamentation in silver, copper and gold leaf within. Words can't do this theatre justice so for more pix see the gallery at
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Butte's Montana Standard agrees with our assessment of the theatre and, just prior to the theatre's 75th anniversary The Standard ran a story on the beautiful old theatre. Read an excerpt below.
Anaconda’s jewel
September 18, 2011 12:00 am • Story and photos by George Plaven of The Montana Standard
ANACONDA — For 75 years, show time in Anaconda has meant the Washoe Theater’s colorful marquee lighting the night sky with a touch of luxury along Main Street.
Moviegoers stroll inside through the double doors, and pace the hallways down a row of red and gold carpet. Carefully kept wall paintings trace the history of man, from Ancient Egypt to modern Montana.
Popcorn in hand, they take their seat from among 978 in the auditorium and gaze ahead at the silk stage curtain, highlighted by two large stags as a symbol of Deer Lodge County.
The Washoe Theater officially turns 75 on Sept. 24. Manager Jerry Lussy said the setting is a feature presentation in its own right, impressing residents from around the area since its grand opening in 1936.
Along with Radio City Music Hall in New York City, the Washoe Theater is one of the last American theaters built in Art Deco style — characterized by eclectic colors and lavish decoration. “Some people don’t even come to see the show; they just come to see the theater,” Lussy said. “We are a destination.”
Built in 1931 on the same site as the former Margaret Theater (named after Marcus Daly’s wife), the Washoe Theater postponed opening while the Great Depression took hold across the country.
Read more at the Montana Standard