The 20th Century Theatre in Cincinnati, located in the Oakley neighborhood, is an iconic venue that has made a significant mark on the city's cultural history. Opened in 1941, the theater is a distinctive example of Art Deco architecture, featuring elegant design and modernist details that reflect the spirit of the era. Originally designed as a cinema, the 20th Century Theatre later expanded its role, becoming a landmark for cultural events, live performances, and concerts.
Throughout the 20th century, the theater served as a gathering place for the local community, hosting not only film screenings but also theatrical productions and artistic events. Its transformation from a traditional cinema to a multipurpose venue highlights the adaptability and historical significance of this space, which remains a vital part of Cincinnati's artistic landscape. Today, the 20th Century Theatre symbolizes the connection between past and present, celebrated for its architectural beauty and contributions to local culture.
For the renovation of the auditorium, Aresline designed and supplied an innovative setup, integrating Metropolitan seats with a fully automated Flexseat and Papillon seats.
The space was envisioned as a traditional theater hall with rows of seats arranged on the floor. However, thanks to an advanced electromechanical system, the area can be quickly reconfigured into a single large open space. The Metropolitan seats are engineered to fold and disappear seamlessly into the floor, while the Papillon seats are noted for their practicality: they can be swiftly folded and stored in dedicated trolleys for easy handling.
