The Wiltern Theatre, nestled at the Los Angeles crossroads of Wilshire Boulevard and Western Avenue, has established a reputation over its 100-year history as a haven for both artistic excellence and historical significance.
Designed by renowned architect Stiles O. Clements of Morgan, Walls & Clements, the Wiltern Theater was initially conceived as a vaudeville venue, however it first opened its doors in 1931 as the Warner Brothers Western Theatre, enticing moviegoers as a film palace. Its distinctive blue-green terra-cotta facade, adorned with vertical neon signs illuminating the marquee, is a testament to the Art Deco style that swept the United States during that era.
Inside unveils a world of opulence and grandeur. The interior, designed by G. Albert Lansburgh, features lavish murals, ornate decorative plaster, and exquisite tile work. The pièce de résistance, undoubtedly, is the awe-inspiring Art Deco sunburst ceiling, an emblem of the theatre’s timeless elegance.
Over the decades, the Wiltern Theatre has undergone numerous transformations, but it has always managed to preserve its cultural heritage. Today, it thrives as a premier venue, hosting legendary performances by music icons like Prince, James Brown, Neil Young, Nina Simone, and many more. In December last year, it was transformed once more to host Céline’s indie sleaze-infused Céline 17 – Women Winter 2023 collection, helmed by the brand’s artistic director Hedi Slimane. Trademark black sunglasses accompanied faux fur outerwear, biker boots, skinny jeans, and glittering beaded gowns, scored by the White Stripes’ “Hello Operator”. Post-show, guest were treated to live performances from artists including Iggy Pop, Interpol, The Strokes and a DJ set by The Kills.
