Hanford Fox Theatre

The Hanford Fox Theatre is a historic movie palace located in Hanford, California, that stands as a testament to the grandeur and cultural significance of early American theatre palaces. Built in 1929 by William Fox of Fox Theaters, the theatre is one of the few remaining atmospheric theatres from that era, designed to transport audiences to a romantic Spanish courtyard under a night sky adorned with twinkling stars and a crescent moon. The theatre's interior is a blend of Mediterranean and Spanish Renaissance influences with Mission Revival decor, creating an eclectic yet harmonious environment. The proscenium is supported by Greco-Roman columns, and the fire-proof screen separating the stage from the audience is adorned with a magnificent oil painting depicting a Spanish village. Originally equipped with a full stage, dressing rooms, fly, and orchestra pit to accommodate the popular vaudeville acts of the time, the Hanford Fox Theatre transitioned to showing motion pictures as the film industry burgeoned. The orchestra pit once held full orchestras and later housed a pipe organ console, providing music for silent films and live stage events. The advent of television after World War II led to a decline in movie theatre attendance, causing many movie palaces to be demolished or repurposed. However, the Hanford Fox Theatre found new life when it was purchased by historic preservationist J. Daniel Humason in 1979. After a period of restoration, the theatre reopened for movies in 1982 and soon began hosting live concerts, rekindling its role as a hub of entertainment. Today, the restored Hanford Fox Theatre boasts 889 seats in its sloped-floor auditorium, the largest in Kings County, and a balcony with 142 plush rocking chairs. Known as the Cabaret, the balcony serves snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine to guests over the age of 21. The theatre continues to operate as a privately-owned venue, hosting a variety of events including movies, live performances, and private functions such as weddings. The Hanford Fox Theatre has a rich history, having witnessed the transition from vaudeville and silent films to talkies and beyond. It has endured through the era of television and the rise of multi-screen cinemas, remaining an architectural treasure and a cultural cornerstone for community and cultural events. Visitors to the Hanford Fox Theatre are encouraged to attend performances and movies, contributing to the ongoing legacy of this historical landmark. The theatre's commitment to quality entertainment and its role in preserving