Kristen Stewart Revives A Piece Of La History With Highland Theatre Purchase

Kristen Stewart Takes on Highland Theatre Revival

Oscar-nominated actress and director Kristen Stewart is stepping off the silver screen and onto a different kind of stage by purchasing the iconic Highland Theatre in Highland Park, Los Angeles. This once-bustling 1920s cinema, now closed, is set for a major glow-up under Stewart's vision. Eager to reinvigorate the community, she’s got plans to turn this historic gem back into a vibrant gathering spot.

In an Architectural Digest feature, Stewart shared her excitement about the project, saying, "I ran toward it with everything I had. I'm fascinated by broken-down old theaters. I always want to see what mysteries they hold."

“It’s an opportunity to make a space to gather and scheme and dream together,” Stewart added, hinting at her desire to create a versatile venue for local creatives.

The Legacy of Highland Theatre

Situated at 5604 N. Figueroa St., the Highland Theatre is a Highland Park staple. Designed by the celebrated Southern California architect Lewis Arthur Smith, this theater first opened its doors in March 1925. It welcomed Angelenos with a showing of "Lady of the Night" and hosted vaudeville acts on its storied stage.

Over the years, the Highland Theatre has changed hands multiple times, eventually earning the designation of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument No. 549 in 1991. Unfortunately, like many entertainment venues, it struggled through the pandemic and permanently closed in February 2024, shy of its 100th birthday.

Stewart is aiming to honor its storied past while also bringing a fresh energy to both the neighborhood and the broader LA film community.

Hollywood's Love Affair with Historic Cinemas

Stewart isn't the only Hollywood star dedicated to preserving the legacy of historic theaters. Quentin Tarantino famously swooped in to save the New Beverly Cinema on Beverly Boulevard in 2007, and later the Vista Theatre in 2021, opting to project only 35mm films for an authentic moviegoing experience.

In a similar move, filmmaker Jason Reitman, alongside a star-studded crew including Steven Spielberg and J.J. Abrams, rallied to acquire the Village Theater in Westwood in 2024. Their mission – to preserve this architectural treasure and keep the magic of cinema alive.

Kristen Stewart: A California Native with a Hollywood Dream

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Stewart has always been a quintessential SoCal girl. Growing up in the Valley and later moving to L.A.'s Eastside, she's been a fixture in the entertainment industry since she was eight. Her impressive filmography includes hits like "Panic Room," "The Twilight Saga," and "Spencer," where she earned acclaim for her role as Princess Diana.

In a fun twist, Stewart also recently made her mark on Northern California screens with her role in the buddy comedy "Sacramento," alongside Michael Cera and Michael Angarano.

With Highland Theatre, Kristen Stewart is not just buying a building – she’s investing in the cultural heart of Los Angeles.