Leimert Theater
Leimert Park in southwestern Los Angeles was the brainchild of developer Walter Leimert. The Leimert Theatre, a Spanish Colonial and Art Deco community landmark, was built in 1931 with funding from the Hughes-Franklin Theater Company as a centerpiece of the Leimert Park Business Center. It operated as a first-run theater from its opening in 1932 until 1968. It became known as The Watchtower when it was purchased by Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1977. After actress Marla Gibbs attempted to turn the venue, which she renamed The Vision Theater, into a performing arts space, the City of Los Angeles purchased the building in 1999. The City has undertaken its rehabilitation and expansion, the first phase of which was completed in 2012.
Los Angeles, Los Angeles County
Images by Andrew Schmidt