Did You Know?
The Empress Theatre was originally built as a vaudeville venue. As the vaudeville era gave way to silent film, the theater evolved with the times and in 1929 ushered in the era of the “talkies.” Today it is a multi-purpose regional performing arts center, featuring modern lighting, sound and projection capabilities.
The Vallejo Theatre
1916
The Theatre lease was transferred to Thomas O'Day who spent $5000 on improvements. The establishment reopened as the New Vallejo Theatre in which patrons enjoyed new cushion seats.
1920
The U.S. Constitution outlawed the manufacture, sale, and transport of alcohol. The prohibition era begins and endures for 13 years. During this time, musical comedies and eventually talking movies became the popular mode of entertainment.