In the heart of Times Square, amid a barrage of tourists and billboards, taxi cabs and LED lights, stands an abandoned theater covered in scaffolding. Though it's located in one of the busiest entertainment districts in the world, the structure has stood empty for nearly three decades.
As the nation's retail industry began to decline, the theater struggled to find an owner that could afford its coveted location. Many have tried, and failed, to implement their grand visions for the site, which dates back to the early 20th century.
In the 1990s, a restoration group called The New 42nd Street undertook the mission of renovating seven neglected Times Square theaters. Of all their historical projects, the abandoned building at 215 West 42nd Street is the last to be refurbished.
After interviewing more than 100 applicants, The New 42nd Street finally landed on a developer to convert the old theater into a 52,000 square-foot retail center, featuring glass walls and a two-tiered outdoor terrace.
Take a look at the building's century-long transformation, which is set to be complete in two years' time.
In 1920, the theater opened as a live Broadway playhouse.
The first performance to debut was The Mirage, starring actress Florence Reed.
The structure was designed by Italian-American architect Eugene de Rossa.
The New York Times called it"simple, spacious, handsome, [and] comfortable."
In 1934, the building was converted into a movie theater, which became popular among WWII soldiers on leave.
Source: Wall Street Journal
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