Chicago has many theaters. Some of these, like the New Regal Theater at 1645 E. 79th Street in Chicago, Ill, shows pop art on its exterior wall, and displays an architectural dome. As such, viewers can admire this theater’s art before going inside.
In 1927, the New Regal Theater began as the Avalon Theater. (There is no reference to King Arthur and Avalon, his legendary island.) In 1987, this building became the New Regal Theater. (The old Regal Theater was at 4719 S. King Drive in Chicago.)
When this theater had the Avalon name, many African American entertainers performed there, here are some: Dorothy Dandridge, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Stevie Wonder and Redd Foxx. No notable performers or performances have appeared at this theater since 1987. Yet, this theater still has a somewhat regal appearance.
The Pop Art mural is on the west wall. The art pops with popular musicians. Viewers should recognize Lola Falana’s figure, and the faces of Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, Count Basie, Cab Calloway, Mahalia Jackson and Lena Horne.
The dome is unlike modern, baseball domes, and neither Frank Lloyd Wright nor Walter Gropius was the architect. The design is similar to domes you would see in Arabic counties. (It is unlikely that any magic lamps are part of its construction.)
The New Regal Theater is an outdoor, architectural art exhibit. Glass and steel are not the major materials in its construction. Nevertheless, it is a Chicago landmark.
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