Montclair Movie Theater Rises Like A Phoenix After Almost Closing

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A cherished movie theater in Montclair that almost closed its doors is making a big comeback.

After the lease of former tenant Bow Tie Cinemas expired in 2017, community members rallied to save the Bellevue Theater, a local landmark that first opened almost a century ago. Pushing to prevent the venue from “wasting away into another gentrified retail or office space,” nearly 6,000 people signed an online petition to keep the venue open.

Their wishes took a huge leap towards becoming reality earlier this year, when owner Jesse Sayegh signed a new lease with Highgate Hall LLC, a group dedicated to returning the theater to its former glory.

The company's backers reportedly include some big names in show business, including producer Luke Parker Bowles and actor Patrick Wilson, both of whom are Montclair residents, as well as real estate developer Steven Plofker, Montclair Local stated.

The company said they expect to begin renovation of the Bellevue Theater in November.

Recently, an encouraging sign that offers a quote from “Field Of Dreams” appeared on the marquee of the theater: “If you build it, they will come.”

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WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE BELLEVUE

A newly launched website offers some clues as to what’s in store for the Bellevue.

According to its development team:

“Locally owned and operated, the New Bellevue will preserve a vital part of the cultural landscape while propelling the movie-going experience forward in a fully-renovated, mixed-use venue. The theatre will go beyond the movie to become a cinematic town square connecting people and providing a ‘third space’ away from home and work with something to do every night.”

Developers said the revamped theater will offer a “forward-thinking, technology-first, dine-in concept,” including:

• A “warm, contemporary lounge” that will provide a place to relax before or after the show
• The ability to order food, snacks, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages directly from a mobile device
• A wide selection of entertainment that will range from first-run Hollywood studio movies and family films to select independent features, revivals, event cinema and alternative content

BELLEVUE THEATER: MEMORIES AND HISTORY

According to the Friends of Anderson Park, the theater originally opened in 1922 and has close ties to the park, including its builder – Robert Anderson – the son of Charles W. Anderson, the man who donated the land for the park.

To other Montclair residents, the theater holds a special spot in their personal memories. Seen online:

• “This beautiful theater was my favorite one while living in Upper Montclair back in the seventies… Think this theater should not be torn down nor used for any business that would want a change.”
• “My husband and I went on our first movie date there! Love Bellevue Theatre!”
• “It is a grand old building built and held together of events important - or unknown - forming a tremendous mortar of your community. As the community itself, it deserves to be retained, protected and - dare I say - cherished.”
• “I love this landmark building and will miss all the great family memories here.”
• “This theater is a staple of my childhood and I️ would like to keep it around so it can be a staple to more kids childhoods.”

Do you have a good memory involving the Bellevue Theater? Let us know about it in the comments! Don’t forget to visit the Patch Montclair Facebook page. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com