Following a $40-million revamp, the more than 90-year-old Vision Theatre has reopened in Leimert Park. 

Opened in 1932 at 3341 W. 43rd Place, the property opened as the Leimert Theatre, the property was rebranded as the Vision Theatre in 1990 by its then-owner, actor Marla Gibbs, according to the Department of Cultural Affairs. However, just two years later the theatre encountered the dual headwinds of the 1992 riots and an overall economic recession in the region, leading to an eventual foreclosure. The Spanish and Art Deco-style venue came under City ownership in 1999, at which point it was transformed into a performing arts center. 

EntrywayGary Leonard

An initial renovation of the property was completed in 2011, and the current project began in 2015. Recently-completed work includes:

  • reconfigured seating; 
  • a new lounge area under the seating;
  • a larger stage;
  • a fly loft with office spaces;
  • lower level dressing rooms;
  • green rooms;
  • trap room;
  • technical staff office space; 
  • an orchestra pit; and 
  • a restored marquee.

Interior of the Vision TheatreGary Leonard

The Department of Cultural Affairs partnered last year with Where Art Can Occur (WACO) Theater Center on the co-management and operation of the Vision Theatre. WACO will provide programming for the venue, including plays, dance performances, and concerts, while DCA will oversee its operations and run its back-of-house.

Work on the project was initially set for completion in 2021, but saw its timeline pushed back repeatedly until opening in 2026. Another long-delayed cultural project - the Destination Crenshaw - art and open space corridor, is also making slow progress to the south .

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