Regal Riviera: More Than Just a Movie Theater on Knoxville's Gay Street
Imagine stepping back in time, not with a time machine, but with a movie ticket. That's the feeling you get when you visit the Regal Riviera Stadium 8 on South Gay Street in Knoxville, Tennessee. More than just a place to catch the latest blockbuster, the Regal Riviera is a vibrant landmark, a testament to the city's revitalization, and a nod to the golden age of cinema.
A Modern Theater with a Nod to the Past
The architecture subtly hints at the grand movie palaces of the early 20th century. But why is this important? The Riviera's spectacles of bright lights, prominent signage, and, most importantly, hit movies, are successfully bringing back the essence of that era to Gay Street, when movie theaters were a booming business.
It's conveniently located right in the heart of the action on Gay Street, next to popular spots like Nama, and just around the corner from the State Street Garage, offering easy access via a walkway.
Beyond the Silver Screen: A Knoxville Landmark
But the Regal Riviera is more than just a pretty facade and a convenient location. It's a story of urban renewal, community investment, and a commitment to bringing entertainment back to the heart of downtown Knoxville.
The Riviera's Roots
The new Riviera pays homage to the original Riviera Theatre. Did you know that in the thirteen years before the original Riviera opened its doors, downtown Knoxville saw, on average, more than one new movie theater per year?
The original Riviera was designed in an Art Deco style, with columns and decorative molding that exuded stateliness. It even boasted a Wurlitzer pipe organ and an orchestra pit for live performances!
Unfortunately, after a fifty-year run, the original Riviera closed its doors and was eventually demolished. The site remained a parking lot until the construction of the Regal Riviera Stadium 8.
A Vision for Revitalization
The idea for a new downtown movie theater emerged from a downtown redevelopment plan. Mayors Victor Ashe and Bill Haslam championed the project, with Haslam even contributing personal funds. But it wasn't an easy sell. Convincing Regal Entertainment Group to invest in a downtown theater, given the weak track record of such ventures, was a major challenge.
Thankfully, Regal took the risk, and the Regal Riviera Stadium 8 played a crucial role in sparking the growth of downtown Knoxville.
What Makes the Regal Riviera Special?
So, what sets this theater apart from your average multiplex? Let's delve into the details:
- Comfortable Seating: Forget cramped seats and obstructed views. The Regal Riviera boasts stadium seating, designed to provide an unobstructed view from every seat. The seats are spacious, comfortable, and feature adjustable armrests.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Immerse yourself in the cinematic experience with large, crystal-clear screens and top-notch sound systems. You'll feel like you're right in the middle of the action.
- Concessions Galore: No movie is complete without snacks! The concession stand offers a wide array of options, from classic popcorn and candy to refreshing soft drinks.
- Historical Vibe: The modern interior is designed to celebrate the past while offering all the modern conveniences movie-goers expect.
A Design Inspired by the Past
The exterior design of the Regal Riviera is a deliberate homage to the movie palaces of yesteryear. From the large, double-sided marquee to the consistent use of arches, the architecture evokes a sense of grandeur and nostalgia.
The architects have crafted the modern building by pulling themes from the old theatre. The consistent use of arches found in the exterieur are reminiscent of the proscenium arches found on the stage where audiences can witness the action, while bright colors on the outside are mirrored on the inside!
The Regal Riviera wants to evoke the golden age of movie palaces without copying the past.
More Than Just a Building
The Regal Riviera is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a vital part of the Knoxville community. It represents the culmination of a political vision, the investment of local leaders, and the dedication of the Regal Entertainment Group. But most importantly, it brought much needed foot traffic back to downtown Knoxville.
So, the next time you're looking for a night out at the movies, consider the Regal Riviera Stadium 8. It's not just a movie theater; it's a piece of Knoxville history, a symbol of urban renewal, and a place where you can escape into the magic of the silver screen. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the past while you're there!