Grauman's Chinese Theater

Hollywood, CA

By Susan M. Keenan

Perhaps the most famous theater in the entire world, Grauman’s Chinese Theater has been a Hollywood landmark since its opening on May 18th in 1927. On opening day, the theater premiered Cecil B. DeMille’s “King of King’s,” and opened its doors to the public the next day. An orchestra featuring 65 instruments performed during the prologue as movie patrons sat in anticipation of the night’s big event.

The dream child of Sid Grauman, it rises 90 feet into the air and cost 2 million dollars to build. Today, more Hollywood premiers have been shown in this theater than any other.
Thousands arrive to watch celebrities walk up the red carpet prior to every movie premiere held there.

Appearance and Atmosphere

Ordinary people often long to tread in the footsteps of the rich and famous and finally, with a visit to Grauman’s Chinese Theater, they finally can. The courtyard or forecourt is open to the public and many a dreamy eyed visitor has placed his hands in the prints left by one of his idols or movie greats.  Over 200 colored blocks of cement exist in the courtyard with very few remaining available for new prints.

The theater resembles a red Chinese pagoda, featuring two stone heaven dogs that guard and protect its main entrance. The ornate jade-green bronze roof stretches high into the air. Tiny dragons race up and down the sides of copper roofing as if scurrying for a better look. In fact, the outside has been renovated to look the way it did when it first opened.

Even if you never make it to the inside, the experience of wandering among the footprints of so many well-known movie stars is thrilling and worth the trip. However, if you do take the time to venture inside, the cool darkness does nothing to prepare you for the magnificent display that unfolds before you as your eyes adjust to the dimness after the bright sunshine. An air of intrigue permeates the atmosphere already simply because of the theaters long and interesting history, while an elaborate blend of Asian motifs featured in paintings, statues, vases, fixtures, and carving adds more instantly.

Also, gracing the inside of the theater, visitors can see elaborate wall murals, red and gold columns, a Chinese chandelier, statues, vases, gongs, and wax figurines of authentic Chinese females. The inside of the theater itself includes more than 2,000 red seats, red carpeting, small Oriental lamps interspersed between stone columns, murals in black and white, icons, and dragons.

Four private opera boxes sit in the back for the VIPs. Additionally, the theater offers a state-of-the-art sound system and 70 mm projection.

Events

In the 1940s, the Chinese, as it is also fondly referred to as, hosted the annual Academy Award ceremonies.  In fact, this imposing building is so magnificent in appearance that it has appeared in numerous movies and television sitcoms.

A guided walking tour of the inside the theater lasting half an hour details the history of the theater along with a trip to the VIP lounge and balcony.

Visitors can purchase a ticket to see a movie. Plus, matinee pricing is offered on the first two screenings of the day.

Two theater gift shops sell souvenirs daily. Bus tours of surrounding Hollywood and the homes of famous movie stars are available outside.

Practical Information

Grauman’s Chinese Theater is located at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard.

Information about the theater can be obtained at 323-464-8111 or 323-461-3331.

The forecourt or courtyard of footprints is open 24 hours a day and is free to the public.

Parking is reasonably priced. Limited street parking exists on residential streets with a one-hour limit. No parking on residential streets is permitted on Sundays. The garage under the Hollywood and Highland Project offers parking as well. Several paid lots south of Hollywood Boulevard and the west side of Highland are available for longer durations.

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