Regal cinemas gay street

The Regal Riviera Stadium 8, which is situated on Gay Street, is a noteworthy highlight within downtown Knoxville.

The Regal Riviera Stadium 8 transports its patrons (guests) to the age of glory that was the original Riviera Theatre. The vivid and bright spectacles of illumination, noteworthy signage, coupled with popular movies exhibited at the Riviera, revives the 500 block located on Gay Street to the movie theater prosperity that typified the early years of the twentieth century. The Riviera's legacy goes on close to a century following the origination of the Riviera's identity within downtown Knoxville.

Historical Context Regarding the Original Riviera Theatre

The early part of the 20th century witnessed the erection of various movie theaters along Gay Street; each subsequent theater apparently was constructed to "exceed the previous one in scale and grandeur" [18]. In the thirteen years leading up to the inauguration of the Riviera Theater during 1920, downtown Knoxville saw the introduction of, on average, more than a single movie theater per year [18]. The Riviera aspired to distinguish itself when Paramount Pictures decided to be the operator of the new project via their subsidiary, Wilby-Kincey [4]. It's been suggested that the Riviera carried a price tag of $200,000 for Paramount Pictures [18]. Built into a pre-existing Victorian-esque building dating back to 1886 situated within the 500 block of Gay Street, the new movie theater saw the enlistment of the local architecture firm Monday and Young to spearhead its design [5/18]. Opting for an art deco design for the new theater, Monday and Young increased the impressiveness of the two-story building constructed of brick by incorporating decorative molding coupled with columns [18]. Similar to what the current Regal Riviera Stadium 8 showcases, the facade of the original Riviera Theatre also featured a prominent central bay window [18].

The project designers (architects) recognized the marquee to be an opportunity which would allow them to truly distinguish themselves on Gay Street. The Riviera's marquee, measuring seventeen feet, stood out as the most expansive one within the area [18]. The architects constructed themes related to other performance venues in the downtown area, in a fashion similar to that which the modern Regal Riviera Stadium 8 borrowed themes evident in the original Riviera [18]. The most significant inspiration that spurred the Riviera Theatre came from the historic Staub Theater (rebranded as Loew's Theater by 1920), which was Knoxville's most opulent venue intended for live performances; the Riviera further enhanced this opulence through its incorporation of Tennessee marble within its ticket booths as well as along the interior lobby walls [18]. The Riviera Theatre also boasted more seating, exceeding one thousand seats, than the foremost two movie theaters situated in downtown Knoxville, which were the Gay Theater as well as the Queen [18].

The Riviera earned the distinction of being referred to as the 'Shrine of the Silent Art', and it showcased abbreviated live shows staged between film screenings [18]. Live performers, such as Ginger Rogers, a small stage, a Wurlitzer pipe organ, alongside an orchestra pit were features offered by the Riviera Theatre [18]. From the year nineteen twenty through nineteen twenty-eight, the Riviera Theater maintained its distinction as downtown Knoxville's most sensational movie house. However, that title shifted towards the Tennessee Theater upon its opening during nineteen twenty-eight [18]. Despite the success demonstrated by the Tennessee Theater, the Riviera nevertheless managed to attract significant attendance throughout the nineteen forties and fifties, on account of its capability to procure showings of the most sought-after movies [18]. To illustrate, "Gone with the Wind" had its premiere at the Riviera and was screened for a record-breaking five weeks [18]. In June of nineteen sixty-three, a fire broke out while the special effects film known as 'Jason and the Argonaunts' was being screened at the Riviera [16]. Luckily, none of the moviegoers sustained injuries [9]. Aside from the facade, the Riviera incurred damage that nearly totalled it, with an estimated loss between $150,000 and $200,000 back then [16/9]. However, the rebuilding of the Riviera did not take a long time. After just seven months following the fire, the "New Riviera", as it was called, greeted an audience of invitees for its initial showing in January of nineteen sixty-four [6]. "Charade," starring Cary Grant alongside Audrey Hepburn, was the movie selected for the reopening [6].

An expanded lobby, revamped projection equipment, greater capacity created for moviegoers, plus newly installed air conditioning systems, were features provided through the rebuilt Riviera [6].

The emergence of cinema houses constructed beyond the downtown Knoxville region led to difficult periods for the New Riviera throughout the nineteen sixties and seventies [18]. On January the seventh, nineteen seventy-six, the Riviera formally ceased operation at the conclusion of its half-century run [7]. The building then went up for sale the following day, priced at $213,000 [7]. George Tate, the building's proprietor, suggested that "The building potentially held prospects for conversion into a restaurant or possibly its adaptation for utilization as a community theater" [7]. Spanning the ensuing years, several concepts came up regarding the future of the building, ranging from a multimedia entertainment hub to an office complex to, perhaps, even a Krystal restaurant [18]. Unfortunately, these proposals never came to fruition, precipitating the demolition of the theater during nineteen eighty-eight [18]. The location subsequently became a parking facility before being redeveloped through the construction of the Regal Riviera Stadium 8 back in two thousand and seven [18]. Thankfully, the preservation of the façades belonging to additional historical buildings took place during this construction endeavor [14]. A further exploration concerning the progression associated with the Regal Riviera will be provided later.

The Regal Riviera Stadium 8: A Glimpse Into Its Past and Future

During August of two thousand seven, a selectively invited audience attended the Regal Riviera's preview screenings intended for its opening night, showcasing such films as 3:10 to Yuma, Balls of Fury, plus The Nanny Diaries [15]. Despite all indicators pointing to a faultless opening night, only a minor aspect was absent, notably, electrical power! [15]. The Regal Riviera underwent a power failure during its opening night; nevertheless, moviegoers sustained elevated spirits [15]. It goes without saying that the remainder of the opening week for the Riviera went more smoothly by comparison. Dollar movies were offered, allocating all earnings to regional charitable organizations [12]. Ever since then, the Regal Riviera has established itself as the destination for moviegoers seeking to watch movies situated in the historically rich downtown Knoxville area. The prospects for the Regal Riviera appear encouraging, seeing that projections anticipate gross revenues exceeding $2 million by two thousand seventeen [11].

Location

The Regal Riviera Stadium 8 resides in the center of downtown Knoxville, specifically within the 500 block found on Gay Street. The historic S&W building along with the Blaufield and Athletic House buildings neighbor the Regal Riviera [14]. Mr. Russ Nunley (Vice President of Marketing and Communications who represents the Regal Entertainment Group) mentioned through an interview that, to generate the most benefit for the downtown area, the city of Knoxville actually designated the site for the Regal Riviera [1]. The city had a hunch that the Gay Street site could trigger much-needed pedestrian activity (foot traffic) intended for other businesses located downtown [1]. According to Mr. Nunley, the presence demonstrated by the Riviera along "Theater Row" permits it to enrich other performance sites located in the downtown area, such as the Tennessee Theatre in addition to the Bijou [1].

Progress in its Development

A proposal concerning launching a fresh downtown Knoxville movie cinema came about within the layout of a downtown redevelopment strategy that was formally drafted throughout two thousand under the oversight of Knoxville's previous mayor, Victor Ashe [11]. The succeeding mayor acted with the same purpose. As one of his initial endeavors performed as mayor of Knoxville, Bill Haslam committed to building the cinema house which would be found on Gay Street by two thousand three [11]. The theater project even received a contribution from Mayor Haslam through his personal funds [11]. The four years that came after this proved difficult. Although Mayor Haslam proclaimed that "I felt fairly self-assured with respect to our ability to successfully execute it," he also used the term "tortured" when describing the growth stage [11]. The primary hurdle existed in persuading the then-chairman coupled with the CEO of Regal Entertainment Group, Mike Campbell, for the purpose of attaining his approval with respect to the constructing of a Regal movie theater found downtown [11]. During that time, cinema houses found downtown demonstrated a history that was lacking, and there were also a limited number of inhabitants as well as too many cinemas located in the areas surrounding downtown Knoxville [11]. Downtown Knoxville's rise in popularity in addition to a financing strategy, which allocated any potential liabilities among public and private sectors, encouraged Campbell to provide his signature of approval [11]. The financing strategy granted ownership for the cinema house to the city. In the meantime, Regal leased the cinema house from the city through fluctuating rates which depended upon the cinema house's overall gross operational revenues [11]. It still stood as a significant liability intended for the city of Knoxville coupled with Regal [11].

Budget increases introduced the next obstacle pertaining to the project. Although the initial budget had been established for $9 million, it got raised to approximately $15 million upon the cinema house's completion [11]. The primary factors that contributed to this amplified budget pertained to architectural redesigns coupled with construction costs surging due to hurricane activity [11]. A total of $14.85 million was spent for funding; The city provided $4 million intended for construction, Regal allocated $2.5 million intended for equipment as well as furniture, $4.25 million came through third-party investors, $2 million came by way of a tax credit, a state grant supplied $1.1 million, with the remaining million being supplied through a tax subsidy [11]. The budget hurdles led to the original opening date for spring of two thousand six to be postponed to November of two thousand six [11]. The opening date had to be postponed yet again; however, during November of two thousand seven, everyone's tireless efforts were ultimately rewarded through the grand opening [11]. As declared through a pamphlet distributed during the Riviera's grand opening, "[Its] supporting role performed throughout the revitalization of downtown Knoxville gives Regal great pride" [10].

Exterior Design

Cinema houses of prior times served as the source of inspiration for the exterior design that was incorporated into the Regal Riviera Stadium 8. Within a Metro Pulse article dating back to August of two thousand seven, a comparison was drawn between the Regal Riviera as well as a Roman Baroque cinema house. The facade's hues possess a vibrant character, while its golden embellishments in addition to the use of neon illuminations hint towards glamour [13]. The Riviera's facade is highlighted by its three primary aspects. The aspects include the marquee, the vertically arranged 'Riviera' sign, as well as the arches. The marquee marks the opening highlight of the exterior design. According to Mr. Nunley, the memories of the original Riviera Theatre's marquee are stirred through the Regal Riviera's overhanging marquee [1]. The vertically arranged 'Riviera' sign serves as the ensuing facade highlight associated with the Riviera. Guests are attracted by this large double-sided sign through its refined style. As its numerous lights bring it to life, the sign turns into a genuine spectacle when evening falls. The recurring utilization involving arches comprises the concluding highlight pertaining to the exterior. The Riviera's exterior showcases the prominence of arches. These arches elicit memories associated with proscenium arches applied to separate the stage away from the audience, hence fashioning a seemingly imperceptible partition that enables audiences to witness any ongoing actions [19]. The plentiful collection of arches presented by the Riviera intimates events that unfold as movies contained within its building's walls. The facade plays the role of an unseen partition within this context. Besides the arches, references intended for the critical city portals during medieval times could also be considered.

Critique of Design, In Addition To The Relevant Responses

On the other hand, there was a portion of critique brought against Regal pertaining to the Riviera's design coming from a series of architects [17]. According to these architects, the references applied to portray the facade's background appear superficial [17]. Mike Cummings, that led the project as lead architect, responded to these critiques when he noted the fact that "We took numerous cues from the old Riviera" [17]. Yet, he acknowledged the application of various modern resources which may not have been on hand during the time when the original Riviera was being constructed [17]. He continues by declaring that they harbor no expectations pertaining to the notion that it can be misrepresented as originating from that past timeframe [17]. According to an architecture professor originating from the University of Tennessee, located in Knoxville, cinema houses downtown achieve prosperity through foreground or background construction [17]. His concerns pertaining to the Regal Riviera hinged on his understanding that it wasn't a foreground construction and it wasn't a background construction either, resulting from material clashes coupled with varying colors [17]. As a direct response targeted toward the colors that were criticized regarding the Riviera's layout, Mr. Nunley stated that Regal elected to apply bright colors specifically to mirror the values associated with entertainment [1]. Regal deliberately sought to possess qualities that would distinguish it as a site that would hold events as opposed to simply integrating it among the other structures located along Gay Street [1].

In addition, there has been attention brought to the critique involving the challenges that come with discerning the vertically arranged 'Riviera' sign out from more remote locations, resulting from the structure being situated a certain distance removed away from the street [17]. Mr. Nunley clarified that the reason which resulted in the Riviera being situated off the street centered around impeding the lines that were being established by moviegoers awaiting to buy their tickets right at the ticket office from interfering with any pedestrian traffic which may be on their way to other popular locations downtown [1]. In spite of these architectural criticisms, the architects hold onto their aspiration concerning the successfulness of the Riviera [17].

Interior Design

Right upon entering the Regal Riviera's lobby, one of the very first characteristics which one takes notice of entails a collection of three extensive black-and-white images which depict the history relating to Gay Street, which highlight the original Riviera Theater. These images emphasize Gay Street that was common during the years spanning the '20s, '30s, in addition to the '40s [12]. The pictures prove, yet again, the levels of dedication that Regal devotes for the purpose of preserving historical context. Also, the vibrant colors which are expressed along the exterior continue to be prominent as one transitions inside the theater. An elevated ceiling characterizing the lobby, a diverse collection of concessions, coupled with readily accessible restrooms are among the elements that underscore the levels of convenience provided at the Riviera's interior [13]. The dimensions of the Regal Riviera surpass those of the original Riviera Theater by a longshot; unlike the initial Riviera, the new Riviera stretches all the way towards State Street [1]. Encompassing an overall 40,000 square foot across the land, this sizable complex can be found in the heart of downtown real estate [11]. Approximately 2,000 seats, spread throughout eight screens, are present at the theater [11].

Shows and Performances

Through the last scenes expressed during the silent movie timeframe spanning throughout the 19th century up to the world-class levels of 3-D technology seen nowadays, a constant state of entertainment, valuable information, coupled with inspiration are offered and provided as a result of movies being presented. The Riviera has everything to do with movies; yet, performances are no longer provided among film showings, as they had once been presented through the initial Riviera Theater. Featuring eight screens, digital audio, comfortable seats, coupled with affordable price points, the Regal Riviera outshines the competition within the movie theater industry [11/13]. Ticket price points range between $8.50 to adults, $7 to students, with $6 for children [11].

The City

Through the ways by which the Regal Riviera has become intertwined and assimilated within the city of Knoxville, local residents in addition to visitors find their social, political, and aesthetic experiences transformed. The sense of community which unites the city's residents has been brought by the Riviera; this can be seen when rallying behind a movie theater in the downtown region or by just going out and enjoying an evening spent with friends in the downtown region. Two mayors coupled with all members of their respective staffs have expressed political measures in order to bring a movie theater within the downtown region to life. Tourists are presented with an interesting façade which captivates even the most demanding flâneur (as the German essayist Walter Benjamin has described as a city-walker who has an eager interest for the purpose of experiencing what the city has to present) from an aesthetic level. Yet, the historical significance expressed by the facade has deep meaning for the local population. They are able to reflect and recall the prime era of the former Riviera with the new Riviera that exists. David Mayernik conveyed the processes involved with mnemotectonics in his article titled 'Rome: The Memory City.' He explains throughout his article on how the Greeks and Romans perfected such a memory method revolving around mnemotectonics in order to use images pertaining to buildings to recall ideas [20]. Considering that well-known architect Daniel Libeskind states that 'Architecture and memory are synonymous,' the Regal Riviera can almost merit consideration as being a monument [21].

As stated by Mr. Nunley, there are revived levels of excitement occurring currently for the purpose of integrating and bringing businesses, notably cinema houses, to districts within the downtown region [1]. He made it known that Regal consistently searches for a proper balance involving lodging, retailers, restaurants, with strong bases found through audiences at times when scouting possible locations intended for new cinema houses [1]. Somehow, the construction involving the Regal Riviera had been achieved by operating in a backward style; the balance had not yet come together during the initial planning stages. However, Regal has provided the much-needed balance back to downtown Knoxville with the successful resurrection and renewal it brought to the Riviera.

Info Sources

1 - Personal Interview was Conducted With Mr. Russ Nunley, Who Serves As The Vice President In Marketing As Well As Communications Of The Regal Entertainment Group

Russ Nunley, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Regal Entertainment Group

3 - 'Regal Riviera Stadium 8' - Found At The Cinema Treasures website &8211; http://cinematreasures.org/theater/21138/

4 - 'Riviera Theatre' - Found At The Cinema Treasures website &8211; http://cinematreasures.org/theater/16357/

5 - 'Fracas brings Riviera renovation to a halt' - Sourced From The Knoxville Journal - Published On 9/30/1981 - Authored By Robert Jones

6 - 'Seats Roomier, Screen Wider: New Riviera to have ‘Comfort'' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 1/12/1964 - Authored By Gunby Rule

7 - 'Riviera Theatre Sale Offered for $213,000' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 1/8/1976

8 - 'Small fire at old Riviera Theatre' - Sourced From Knoxville Journal - Published On 5/1981

9 - 'Adjoining Businesses Damaged by Blaze; One Fireman Hurt' - Sourced From Knoxville Journal - Published On 6/24/1963

10 - Handout Released As Part Of The Grand Opening With Respect To The Regal Riviera Stadium 8 - Published On 8/31/2007

11 - 'Center City, Center Stage: Downtown theater finally set to open after 'tortured' development process' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 8/26/2007

12 - 'Knoxvillians can't resist Riviera' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 9/1/2007 - Authored By Hayes Hickman

13 - 'Downtown's Cine-Flex: The New Riviera to Cater to its Crowd' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 8/31/2007 - Authored By Betsy Pickle

14 - 'New Theater: a milestone on Gay Street' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 8/5/2007

15 - 'A Regal Surprise: movie goers greeted by power outage on opening night' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 8/28/2007 - Authored By Hayes Hickman

16 - 'Riveria is reborn on Gay Street' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 9/13/2006 - Authored By Roger Harris

17 - 'The Riviera as Art: Local architects and others respond to the new downtown theater's controversial design' - Sourced From Metro Pulse - Published On 8/30/2007

18 - 'Remembering the Riviera: ‘Shrine of the Silent Art' was a major player in Knoxville's movie-house history' - Sourced From Knoxville News Sentinel - Published On 8/27/2007 - Authored By Scott McNutt

19 - Description From The Entry Concerning 'proscenium arch' - Sourced From The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms - Published On 2004 &8211; Accessed At http://www.answers.com/topic/proscenium-arch

20 - 'Rome: The Memory City' - Sourced From Timeless Cities: An Architect's Reflections on Renaissance Italy - Authored By David Mayernick

21 - 'Memory/Memorial/Performance: Lower Manhattan, 1776/2001' - Sourced From Performance and the City - Authored By D.J. Hopkins and Shelley Orr

Author: Chris Borns