Kristen Stewart has made headlines once again, but this time not for a new film role.
The acclaimed actress and director has purchased the long-abandoned Highland Theatre in Los Angeles’ Highland Park neighborhood, with ambitious plans to revitalize it as a dynamic cultural and community space.
The historic venue, which first opened its doors in 1925, stands as a testament to Los Angeles’ rich cinematic heritage.
Designed by prominent architect Lewis Arthur Smith, the Highland Theatre once hosted vaudeville acts and classic films, serving as a neighborhood gathering spot for nearly a century.
Tragically, the theater shuttered in early 2024, falling victim to the economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its closure left a void in the community, as residents mourned the loss of a local landmark just shy of its centennial celebration.
Stewart, a proud native of Los Angeles, discovered the property and immediately saw its potential.
She acquired the theater through an LLC and has since been vocal about her passion project in interviews, including a feature in Architectural Digest.
“I ran toward it with everything I had,” Stewart revealed about her decision.
Her vision extends beyond mere restoration; she aims to create a welcoming environment that bridges filmmakers and everyday audiences in meaningful ways.
Central to her plan is transforming the Highland into a true community hub.
The revitalized space will feature independent film screenings, live performances, educational workshops, and family-friendly events designed to engage the diverse Highland Park population.
Stewart is adamant that the theater won’t cater solely to elite cinephiles.
“It’s not just for pretentious Hollywood cinephiles,” she stated.
“We want to make it a family affair, something for the community.”
Restoration work will preserve the building’s original 1920s Spanish-style charm while adding contemporary touches like advanced projection systems and flexible gathering areas to support various cultural activities.
The project represents Stewart’s commitment to countering corporate dominance in entertainment.
She describes it as “an antidote to all the corporate bullshit,” focusing instead on fostering creativity, collaboration, and local connections.
This endeavor echoes similar preservation efforts by other industry icons, highlighting a collective push to keep traditional moviegoing alive amid streaming’s rise.
As the Highland Theatre prepares for its comeback under Stewart’s guidance, excitement is palpable across Los Angeles.
The revitalization promises not only to save a historic gem but to enrich the city’s cultural landscape for years to come.