5 Shocking Facts About The Closure Of Denver's Iconic Esquire Movie Theater (And What's Replacing It)

The final curtain has officially fallen on one of Denver's most cherished cultural institutions. As of July 18, 2024, the historic Esquire Theatre, a fixture on 6th Avenue for nearly a century, permanently closed its doors, marking a profound loss for the city’s film community and independent cinema enthusiasts. This closure, which came despite a passionate community effort to save the nearly 100-year-old venue, represents a significant shift in Denver's cultural landscape and the ongoing challenges facing single-screen movie houses across the country. The news of the closure, announced earlier in 2024, spurred a fight for preservation that ultimately failed to stop the building owners' plans for redevelopment. The Esquire, known for its commitment to arthouse films, cult classics, and independent features, was more than just a place to watch a movie; it was a communal gathering spot and a vital piece of the Capitol Hill neighborhood's identity.

From Hiawatha to Arthouse: The 97-Year Profile of the Esquire Theatre

The Esquire Theatre's rich history began long before it became the arthouse staple Denverites knew and loved. Its story is one of architectural evolution and cultural adaptation, surviving economic downturns, changes in film technology, and shifts in neighborhood demographics. The building first opened its doors on September 3, 1927, under the name Hiawatha Theatre. This original name reflected a design that incorporated American Indian colors and designs, a detail that speaks to the architectural trends of the time. Located prominently in the Capitol Hill area, the theater quickly established itself as a local favorite. In the 1930s, the property served a dual purpose, functioning as a meeting place for the local Jewish community in addition to screening films. It was later renamed the Esquire Theatre, cementing its identity for the next several generations. Over time, the building underwent significant changes, including the closure of its balcony to create a second theater space, transforming it into the twin-screen venue it was in its final years.

A Landmark for Independent Cinema

The theater's most influential era began in 1980 when it was taken over by Landmark Theatres. Under Landmark's operation, the Esquire became the premier destination in Denver for independent, foreign, and specialized cinema, distinguishing itself from the multiplexes that dominated mainstream moviegoing. The Esquire's programming was a cultural lightning rod, hosting countless film festivals, special screenings, and being the long-time home for cult phenomena. It was a particularly beloved venue for fans of *The Rocky Horror Picture Show*, which was a staple of its late-night showings for decades, creating a unique, participatory film experience that defined its cultural significance. Along with other Landmark properties like the Mayan Theatre and Chez Artiste, the Esquire anchored Denver's independent film scene. The final films screened before the closure on July 18, 2024, included *A Quiet Place: Day One* and *Fancy Dance*, providing a poignant last run for the nearly century-old institution.

The Final Curtain: A Timeline of the Esquire Theatre's Closure

The decision to close the Esquire was not sudden, but the finality of the announcement in 2024 sent shockwaves through the Denver community. The closure highlights the economic pressures on historic, single-use buildings in rapidly developing urban areas. The building, situated at the bustling intersection of 6th Avenue and Downing Street, was sold to a new owner, who then sought to change the use of the property. The lease with Landmark Theatres expired, paving the way for the redevelopment plans.

The Battle for Preservation

Upon learning of the impending closure and redevelopment, a significant grassroots effort emerged. Film fans, community members, and local organizations rallied to save the historic theater, pushing for it to be designated a Denver Landmark. This designation would have provided protection against demolition or significant alteration. However, the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission ultimately approved the owners’ plan to move forward with the change in use. This decision effectively cleared the path for the building’s transformation, prioritizing the economic viability of the property over its cultural and historical function as a movie theater. The closure of the Esquire follows a broader trend of independent theater shutdowns in Denver, underscoring the challenges posed by high property taxes, rising operating costs, and the changing dynamics of film distribution.

The Future of 6th Avenue: Redevelopment Plans and Denver's Changing Film Scene

The end of the Esquire as a movie house marks the beginning of its next phase, which will see the historic structure repurposed for commercial use. The plans submitted to the City and County of Denver detail a significant transformation of the property. The building owners intend to convert the two-story, 9,175-square-foot structure into a mixed-use commercial space. The proposed plan involves creating space for offices, restaurants, and retail, a common fate for historic theaters in prime urban locations.

Adaptive Reuse and a New Identity

The redevelopment is being pursued through the City and County of Denver's Adaptive Reuse program, which is designed to facilitate the repurposing of existing buildings for new uses. Michael Noda, a partner at the architectural firm Neo Studio, was noted in the planning documents related to the proposed changes. The goal is to maintain the existing structure while completely changing its function—a new chapter that will see the site transition from a dark, intimate space for cinema into a vibrant, multi-purpose commercial hub. The loss of the Esquire leaves a significant void in Denver’s independent film landscape. While the Mayan Theatre and Chez Artiste continue to operate under Landmark Theatres, the Capitol Hill neighborhood has lost a crucial piece of its identity. The closure serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of cultural institutions in the face of urban development and commercial pressures, prompting a larger conversation about the preservation of historic film venues and the future of arthouse cinema in the Mile High City. The community now watches to see how the redevelopment of this iconic 6th Avenue cornerstone will reshape the beloved neighborhood.

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