Cinerama Dome takes a likely step toward reopening ‘in the near future’

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A public hearing held by the city on Tuesday morning allowed residents to share their thoughts about potentially reopening the Cinerama Dome and ArcLight Hollywood, specifically regarding on-site alcohol sales.

Tim Fargo, the zoning administrator who led Tuesday’s meeting, said he’s leaning towards approving the permit for the Cinerama Dome, its 14 connected theaters, and a restaurant with outdoor seating. While the official approval hasn’t been issued yet, he indicated his support.

The Dome closed in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic began, and in April 2021, it was announced that it wouldn’t reopen. Since then, movie fans in Los Angeles and across the globe have hoped this iconic venue – considered by many to represent Hollywood itself – would once again open its doors.

During the meeting, Elizabeth Peterson-Gower, speaking for Dome Center LLC, was asked about a reopening date for the theaters. She said she didn’t have a schedule yet, but would share one as soon as it became available.

After Tuesday’s meeting, Peterson-Gower described the approval of the permit as a significant step toward reopening the theaters. She also mentioned the strong public interest in both the Dome and the ArcLight, and said it will help them decide on a timeline for reopening soon.

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During the meeting, Peterson-Gower repeatedly highlighted the success of the Blue Note jazz club, which had opened on the property in August 2025.

Peterson-Gower said the meeting showed that the team’s owners are deeply invested and supportive. She explained that this project is a significant commitment, demonstrating they genuinely care about the quality of the work being done.

Several other people spoke at the hearing. Ted Walker, a planner for the city council district where the theater is located, explained that many historic buildings in the city are currently unused. He said they strongly support efforts to revitalize the Cinerama Dome, recognizing the community’s passion for it, and believe reopening it would add to the energy of Hollywood.

Councilmember Konstantine Anthony, who used to work as an usher at the Dome, expressed his support for its reopening.

Over 30 people shared their thoughts publicly, including Kat Kramer – the daughter of famed director Stanley Kramer, whose film “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” was the first movie shown at the venue in 1963 – film critic Wade Major, and Ben Steinberg, a key leader in the community effort to reopen the building.

One person questioned why the building has remained closed, suggesting it might be a deliberate tactic to allow it to fall into disrepair so developers can justify demolishing it and building condominiums. They expressed concern and frustration that, after a long period, those in charge haven’t addressed public questions, which they found insulting.

I saw someone online put it really well – these reopening delays feel like the owners are almost holding onto a piece of our history and not letting us enjoy it. It’s frustrating because it’s something we all feel connected to, and it feels like it’s being kept from us unnecessarily.

Despite wanting detailed information from the owners, most people at the meeting supported the conditional-use permit – which was the main reason for the gathering. As local advocate Kim Cooper explained, the situation wasn’t about residents opposing the owners. Instead, people genuinely want to collaborate and help revitalize the property.

After the meeting, Peterson-Gower shared that she has a long connection to the Dome. She was heavily involved with events there in the late 1980s and early 1990s, while serving as vice president of the Hollywood Athletic Club, which was nearby on Sunset Boulevard.

Everyone who’s lived here has some connection to the Dome, and I’m no different,” she said. “I tried to keep my personal feelings separate from the hearing, but I really want to see it reopen.”

Although the hearing isn’t completely finished, it looks very likely that the permit will be approved, allowing the project to proceed.

Peterson-Gower expressed strong satisfaction with the feedback received, noting it demonstrates a deep appreciation for the property’s history and a strong desire for its continued success as a valued part of the Hollywood community.

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2026-05-13 01:31