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Historic New Granada Theater Weeks Away from Reopening After 60 Years
The revitalized theater will serve as a community hub with a Black Box theater, jazz recording studio, and space for nonprofits and education.
Mar. 15, 2026 at 3:35am
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After a six-decade closure, the New Granada Theater in Pittsburgh's Hill District is poised to reopen, signaling a broader resurgence of historic theaters and community-focused arts venues across the United States. The theater, originally built in 1927 as the Pythian Temple, will be transformed into a multi-purpose event center featuring a Black Box theater, a jazz recording studio, and space for nonprofit organizations and education.
Why it matters
The reopening of the New Granada Theater is part of a growing trend of 'third spaces' - environments distinct from home and work that foster community, creativity, and social interaction. The theater's focus on preserving cultural heritage, particularly through the inclusion of a jazz recording studio, is a common theme in many theater restoration projects nationwide. The revitalization of the New Granada is also expected to have a positive economic impact on the Hill District, attracting visitors and stimulating local businesses.
The details
Originally built in 1927 as the Pythian Temple for the Colored Knights of Pythias, the building at 2007 Centre Avenue has always been a cornerstone of the Hill District. It served as a social hall and hosted community events for African Americans. In 1937, it was transformed into the New Granada Theater, becoming a popular destination for movies and performances. The reopening will continue this tradition of adaptation, transforming the space into a multi-purpose event center. Restoration efforts are currently focused on the historic Art Deco marquee and the Pythian Temple itself, as the project aims to preserve the building's architectural integrity.
- The New Granada Theater has been closed for approximately 60 years.
- The theater is expected to reopen in the coming weeks.
The players
New Granada Theater
A historic theater in Pittsburgh's Hill District that is poised to reopen after a six-decade closure.
Hill Community Development Corporation
The organization leading the restoration project for the New Granada Theater.
University of Pittsburgh
The university's Community Engagement Center will be an anchor tenant in the revitalized theater.
Louis Bellinger
The architect of the original Pythian Temple, who was one of only sixty Black architects in the United States in the 1930s.
What’s next
The Hill Community Development Corporation is currently focused on the historic restoration of the New Granada Theater's Art Deco marquee and Pythian Temple structure. The theater is expected to reopen in the coming weeks, marking a significant milestone in the revitalization of the Hill District.
The takeaway
The reopening of the New Granada Theater is a testament to the power of community-driven efforts to preserve and reimagine historic spaces. By transforming the theater into a multi-purpose hub that celebrates the neighborhood's cultural heritage, the project demonstrates how the restoration of iconic venues can serve as catalysts for broader community engagement and economic development.
