In the 1980s, Iowa City’s Englert Theatre was divided into a two-screen cinema. Gypsum board, paneling, carpeting and acoustic ceilings became part of the building’s interior.
That cinema chapter came after decades of change. William and Etta Englert opened the theatre on September 26, 1912, on the site of a former livery stable at 221 E. Washington Street. Early programming included vaudeville and films.
In 1926, a roof fire caused major damage. The theatre was rebuilt with ornate 1920s movie-palace aesthetics, with significant backing from A.H. Blank.
After the 1999 sale to a prospective club operator, preservation efforts led toward returning the building to live performance and community use. The Englert reopened as a nonprofit arts organization in December 2004.
The building’s documented history is available through The Englert’s official history. Current performances and planned visits should be checked through The Englert’s visit information.
