The Byrd Theater

The Byrd Theater

The Byrd Theater, located in Richmond VA, is not only a historic site for our city, but a nationally recognized American landmark.  The Byrd Theater was built in 1928 and named after William Byrd II who founded the city!  Richmonders sooned started referring to The Byrd as “Richmond’s Move Palace”, perhaps because of how grand and beautiful the building is inside and out!  So beautiful and ornate that it took $900,000 to complete, which estimates to $11 million dollars in today’s money.  In The Byrd’s early days adult tickets cost 50 cents, and children’s were just 25 cents!  Richmonders came to The Byrd not only for movies, but for news and live shows as well.  It used to be before each motion picture, two news stories would play to the public.  This was because household televisions wouldn’t come around for a few more decades, so this is how Richmonders saw their news instead of just listening at home on their radios.  Besides just motion pictures and news reels, The Byrd is also a functioning stage!  Live concerts, performances and the famous organ playing can still be found at The Byrd Theater today.   Today you can still visit The Byrd Theater, see movies and live shows!  What makes the theater so special today is that they pay homage to the old days of low prices and memorable times.  When you step foot in the theater you instantly feel transported in time.  The beautiful walls, chandeliers and red curtain make the movie experience different from any other theater in America.  For only $1.99 you can see a movie!  Popcorn, candy and snacks are provided at the beautiful counter in the lobby of the theater.  The Byrd Theater is a really cool affordable way to have fun in Richmond!  This was nationally recognized when it became a Historical Landmark in 1978.  Not only is the theater itself a great place, but it is in the center of fun - Carytown! The Byrd Theater is a must if you visit Richmond Virginia! Fun for all ages!