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{{short description|Live-entertainment auditorium in Los Angeles, United States}}
{{Distinguish|Dolphy Theatre}}
{{About|the venue in Los Angeles|the cinema screen concept|Dolby Cinema|the venue in Las Vegas|Dolby Live}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2023}}
{{Infobox venue
{{Infobox venue
| name = Dolby Theatre
| logo_image = [[File:Dolby Theatre 2022 logo.png|frameless|class=skin-invert]]
| image = [[File:Dolby Theatre Street view.jpg|250px]]
| image = Dolby Theatre v2.jpg
| image_caption = Front facade of the Dolby Theater in [[Hollywood]]
| image_caption = The front facade of the Dolby Theatre at [[Ovation Hollywood]], the actual theatre is at the rear of the complex.
| image_map = {{maplink|frame=yes|plain=yes|type=point|zoom=15|frame-align=center|frame-width=220}}
| location = 6801 [[Hollywood Boulevard]]<br />[[Los Angeles]], [[California]]
| map_caption = Interactive map of the Dolby Theatre's location
| coordinates = {{Coord|34|06|09.75|N|118|20|24.5|W|type:landmark|display=title,inline}}
| type = Indoor [[theatre]]
| former_names = Kodak Theatre (2001–2012)
| location = {{nowrap|6801 [[Hollywood Boulevard]]}}<br />[[Hollywood, Los Angeles|Hollywood]], [[California]]<br />90028
| broke_ground = 1997
| coordinates = {{Coord|34|06|10|N|118|20|25|W|type:landmark|display=title,inline}}
| built = 2001
| publictransit = {{LACMTA link logo}} {{LACMTA icon strip|Red}} [[Hollywood/Highland station|Hollywood/Highland]]
| opened = November 9, 2001
| owner = CIM Group
| owner = Canyon Partners
| type = Indoor [[Theater (structure)|theatre]]
| former_names = Kodak Theatre (2001-2012)<br>Hollywood and Highland Center (2012)
| seating_type = Reserved
| cost = $94 million<ref name="capacity" />
| seating_capacity = 3,400<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dolbytheatre.com/about/ |title=About the Dolby Theatre |publisher=Dolby Theatre |access-date=June 19, 2015 |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304153958/http://www.dolbytheatre.com/about/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
| seating_type = Reserved
| broke_ground = 1997
| seating_capacity = 3,332 <ref name="capacity">{{cite web|url=http://www.kodaktheatre.com/profile.htm |title=Profile |publisher=Kodak Theatre |date= |accessdate=May 2, 2012}}</ref>
| website = [http://www.dolbytheatre.com/ dolbytheatre.com]
| built = 2001
| opened = {{Start date and age|2001|11|09}}
| cost = $94 million<ref name="capacity">{{cite web|url=http://www.kodaktheatre.com/profile.htm |title=Profile |publisher=Kodak Theatre |access-date=May 2, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120416001723/http://www.kodaktheatre.com/profile.htm |archive-date=April 16, 2012 }}</ref>
| general_contractor = McCarthy Building Companies
| website = {{URL|https://dolbytheatre.com}}
}}
}}
[[File:Ray Dolby Ballroom Exterior.jpg|thumbnail|200px|right|The [[Ray Dolby]] Ballroom located at the Dolby Theatre is home of the Governors Ball among other events.]]
[[File:Oscar1 (2).jpg|thumbnail|200px|left|The theatre before the [[75th Academy Awards]] in 2003.]]


The '''Dolby Theatre''' (formerly known as the '''Kodak Theatre''', and temporarily renamed the '''Hollywood and Highland Center theatre''')<ref>{{cite web |last=Finke |first=Nikki |url=http://www.deadline.com/2012/05/oscars-to-stay-at-hollywood-highland-in-newly-names-dolby-theatre/#utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter |title=Kodak Theatre - Oscars Keeps Home At Hollywood & Highland In Newly Named Dolby Theatre | work=Deadline Hollywood |date=Tuesday, 1 May 2012 |accessdate=13 October 2012}}</ref> is a live entertainment theatre in the [[Hollywood and Highland]] shopping mall and entertainment complex on [[Hollywood Boulevard]] and North Highland Avenue in the [[Hollywood]] district of [[Los Angeles]], United States. Since its opening on November 9, 2001, the theatre has been the home of the annual [[Academy Award]]s ceremonies (the Oscars), which were first held there in March 2002, and is the first permanent home for the awards.
The '''Dolby Theatre''' (formerly known as the '''Kodak Theatre''') is a live-performance auditorium in the [[Ovation Hollywood]] shopping mall and entertainment complex, on [[Hollywood Boulevard]] and [[Highland Avenue (Los Angeles)|Highland Avenue]], in the [[Hollywood, Los Angeles|Hollywood]] neighborhood of [[Los Angeles]], California, United States. Since its opening on November 9, 2001, it has been the venue of the annual [[Academy Awards]] ceremony. It's adjacent to [[Grauman's Chinese Theatre]] and across from the [[El Capitan Theatre]] on Hollywood Boulevard.


Besides the Academy Awards, the venue has hosted other concerts and theatrical performances.
==Architecture==
The theatre was designed by [[David Rockwell]] of the Rockwell Group, and Theatre Projects Consultants specifically with the Oscars in mind.<ref>{{cite web |author=John Calhoun |url=http://livedesignonline.com/mag/show_business_kodak_moment/ |title=A Kodak Moment | work=Live Design Online |date=1 April 2002 |accessdate=February 14, 2012}}</ref> The stage is one of the largest in the [[United States]], roughly tied with the [[Edward C. Elliott Hall of Music]] at [[Purdue University]], measuring {{convert|113|ft|abbr=on}} wide and {{convert|60|ft|abbr=on}} deep. However, it has a [[seating capacity]] for up to 3,332 people, about half the size.<ref name="capacity" />


== Architecture ==
The theatre is particularly successful as a venue for a televised theatre performance (improving production values and economies in ''American Idol'' and the Academy Awards) through the planning and technical design. The architect and advisers undertook extensive consultation with many of the leading production personnel in Hollywood which led to highly functional production cable infrastructure systems including an underground cable bunker which passes below the theatre to truck locations in adjacent streets, accessible and substantial power, and a unique camera, sound and stage management cockpit designed by Rockwell in the orchestra seating area.
[[File:Dolby Theatre Oscar Winners.jpg|thumb|200px|A 2016 photo of the Art Deco column displaying the 2012 to 2015 recipients of the [[Academy Award for Best Picture]] at the bottom, and blank spaces at the top for the then-yet-to-be-determined 2016 and 2017 winners]]


The theater was designed by [[David Rockwell]] of the Rockwell Group specifically with the Oscar ceremonies in mind.<ref>{{cite web |author=John Calhoun |url=http://livedesignonline.com/mag/show_business_kodak_moment/ |title=A Kodak Moment |work=Live Design Online |date=April 1, 2002 |access-date=February 14, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120427071557/http://livedesignonline.com/mag/show_business_kodak_moment/ |archive-date=April 27, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Though the stage is one of the largest in the United States—roughly tied with the [[Elliott Hall of Music]] at [[Purdue University]]—measuring {{convert|113|ft}} wide and {{convert|60|ft}} deep, its [[seating capacity]] is only about half that of the Hall of Music,<ref name="capacity" /> accommodating 3,332 people.
The hallway leading up to the grand staircase entrance to the theatre from the front facade is flanked by storefronts as well as [[Art Deco]] columns displaying the names of past recipients of the [[Academy Award for Best Picture]], with blank spaces left for future [[Best Picture]] winners well into the 21st century. In a fashion reminiscent of Hollywood's movie-making process, the building is "[[Set dressing|dressed]]" before the ceremony, including a different sign (though not always), red drapery to hide all the storefronts, and the famous [[red carpet]] running up to the staircase.


The auditorium has become known as a venue for televised theatrical performances (e.g., ''American Idol'' and the Academy Awards). The architectural team consulted extensively with leading production personnel in Hollywood, achieving a highly functional cable infrastructure, with an underground cable bunker that crosses under the theater to truck locations on adjacent streets. Power is also substantial and accessible. The theater has a unique Rockwell-designed cockpit in the orchestra seating area for camera, sound, and stage management.
==History==
The theatre is rented to the [[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]] for weeks before the [[Academy Award|Oscar]] night. During the rest of the year, it hosts numerous live concerts, award shows, symphony performances and others. However, the 7,000 seat [[Nokia Theatre L.A. Live#Nokia Theatre|Nokia Theatre]] at [[L.A. Live]] has largely replaced the Dolby Theatre as the premier auditorium in L.A. since it opened in 2007, and some events formerly held at the Dolby are now regularly held at the Nokia, including the ''[[American Idol]]'' finals.


The hall from the front entrance to the grand stairway (leading up to the theater at the rear of the shopping complex) is flanked by storefronts, as well as [[Art Deco]] columns displaying the names of past recipients of the [[Academy Award for Best Picture]] (with blank spaces left for future Best Picture winners, currently set up to 2071). In a fashion reminiscent of Hollywood movie-making, the building is [[Staging (theatre, film, television)|dressed]] before the Academy Awards ceremony, sometimes with a different sign on its façade, red drapery to hide its storefronts, and the famous [[red carpet]] running up its grand stairway.
The theatre was sponsored, until February 2012, by the [[Eastman Kodak]] Company, which paid $75 million for the [[naming rights]] to the building.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kodaktheatre.com/profile.htm |title=Kodak Theatre |publisher=Kodak Theatre |date= |accessdate=February 14, 2012}}</ref> In early 2012, Eastman Kodak filed for [[bankruptcy]] protection, and thus ended its naming rights deal. The theatre's name was then changed to '''The Hollywood and Highland Center''' at the suggestion of the venue's landlord.<ref>{{cite web|last=Higgins|first=Kat|title=Goodbye Kodak: New Name For The Home Of The Oscars|url=http://news.sky.com/home/showbiz-news/article/16176681|publisher=[[Sky News]]|accessdate=February 25, 2012}}</ref> On May 1, 2012, it was announced that the theatre will be renamed the Dolby Theatre after [[Dolby Laboratories]] signed a 20-year naming rights deal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Oscars' home renamed Dolby Theatre|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57425417/oscars-home-renamed-dolby-theatre/|publisher=[[CBS News]]|accessdate=May 1, 2012|deadurl=yes}} {{Dead link|date=August 2012|bot=RjwilmsiBot}}</ref>


== History ==
Dolby updated the sound system first by installing [[Dolby Atmos]], then plans to continue to update the Dolby Theatre with newer technologies as they arrive.<ref>{{cite web|title=Introducing the Dolby Theatre|url=http://www.dolbytheatre.com|publisher=[[Dolby]]}}</ref>
The theater was developed by the [[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]] (AMPAS) to overcome logistical issues it faced hosting the Academy Awards at other venues, such as the [[Dorothy Chandler Pavilion]] and [[Shrine Auditorium]].<ref>{{harvnb|Pond|2005|p=160}}</ref> In August 1997, AMPAS and Canadian development firm [[Trizec Properties|TrizecHahn]] went into negotiations over the development of an entertainment complex located on the corner of [[Hollywood Boulevard]] and [[Highland Avenue (Los Angeles)|Highland Avenue]] adjacent to the [[Grauman's Chinese Theatre|Mann's Chinese Theatre]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Zehrq |first=Leonard |date=August 29, 1997 |title=TrizecHahn in talks to house the Oscars Wants ceremony in Hollywood project |work=The Globe and Mail}}</ref> Seven months later, both the Academy and TrizecHahn agreed on a twenty-year lease that allowed for the ceremony to be staged at the new venue.<ref name="Hurray2">{{cite news |last=Newton |first=Jim |date=April 3, 1998 |title=Mayor Leads a Hurray for Hollywood |work=Los Angeles Times |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-apr-03-me-35558-story.html |url-status=live |access-date=January 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221113716/http://articles.latimes.com/1998/apr/03/local/me-35558 |archive-date=February 21, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Feiwell |first=Jill |date=June 7, 2001 |title=Oscar will have Kodak moment |work=Variety |url=https://variety.com/2001/film/news/oscar-will-have-kodak-moment-1117801021/ |url-status=live |access-date=January 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222164040/http://variety.com/2001/film/news/oscar-will-have-kodak-moment-1117801021/ |archive-date=February 22, 2014}}</ref>


The Academy Awards were first hosted at the new theater for its [[74th Academy Awards|74th edition]] in 2002, marking the first time it was held in Hollywood since the [[32nd Academy Awards|32nd ceremony]] at the [[Pantages Theatre (Hollywood)|Pantages Theatre]] in 1960.<ref name="Hurray2" /> It has been the venue for all Academy Awards ceremonies held since, with the only exception being the [[93rd Academy Awards]] in 2021—which were downsized and moved to [[Union Station (Los Angeles)|Union Station]] due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Maddus |first1=Gene |date=March 15, 2021 |title=Oscars to Broadcast From L.A.'s Union Station and Dolby Theatre |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |url=https://variety.com/2021/film/awards/oscars-to-broadcast-from-l-a-s-union-station-and-dolby-theatre-1234929614/ |url-status=live |access-date=March 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210324133246/https://variety.com/2021/film/awards/oscars-to-broadcast-from-l-a-s-union-station-and-dolby-theatre-1234929614/ |archive-date=March 24, 2021}}</ref>
==Past events==
The Dolby Theatre is most commonly used for public cultural events such as concerts, shows, and performances. It is however used on occasion for private purposes such as weddings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kodaktheatre.com/private_events.htm |title=Kodak Theatre |publisher=Kodak Theatre |date= |accessdate=February 14, 2012}}</ref>


The theater was sponsored, until February 2012, by the [[Kodak|Eastman Kodak Company]], which paid $75 million for [[naming rights]] to the building.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kodaktheatre.com/profile.htm |title=Kodak Theatre |publisher=Kodak Theatre |access-date=February 14, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120416001723/http://www.kodaktheatre.com/profile.htm |archive-date=April 16, 2012 }}</ref> In early 2012, Eastman Kodak filed for [[bankruptcy]] protection, thus ending its naming-rights deal. Then the theater's name was temporarily changed to the Hollywood and Highland Center<ref>{{cite web |author=Finke, Nikki |url=https://deadline.com/2012/05/oscars-to-stay-at-hollywood-highland-in-newly-names-dolby-theatre-264946/ |title=Kodak Theatre – Oscars Keeps Home At Hollywood & Highland In Newly Named Dolby Theatre |work=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=May 1, 2012 |access-date=October 13, 2012 |archive-date=September 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120904055759/http://www.deadline.com/2012/05/oscars-to-stay-at-hollywood-highland-in-newly-names-dolby-theatre/ |url-status=live }}</ref> at the suggestion of the venue's landlord.<ref>{{cite web|last=Higgins|first=Kat|title=Goodbye Kodak: New Name For The Home Of The Oscars|url=http://news.sky.com/home/showbiz-news/article/16176681|publisher=[[Sky News]]|access-date=February 25, 2012|archive-date=February 28, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120228045058/http://news.sky.com/home/showbiz-news/article/16176681|url-status=live}}</ref>
Artists who have appeared at the theatre include [[Christina Aguilera]], [[Elissa (singer)|Elissa]], [[Celine Dion|Céline Dion]], [[Andrea Bocelli]], [[Dixie Chicks]], [[Mariah Carey]], [[Beyoncé Knowles]], [[Alicia Keys]], [[Elvis Costello]], [[Vanilla Ice]], [[Charice]], [[Philipp Kirkorov]], [[The Corrs]], [[Barry Manilow]], [[Prince (musician)|Prince]], [[The New Power Generation]], [[Ian Anderson (musician)|Ian Anderson]], [[David Gilmour]], [[Valy Hedjasi]], [[Shohreh Solati]], [[Leila Forouhar]], [[Andy Madadian]], [[Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons]], [[Broadway theatre|Broadway]] musicals, dance shows, symphony performances and [[opera]].


On May 1, 2012, it was announced that the venue would be renamed the Dolby Theatre, after [[Dolby]] Laboratories signed a 20-year naming rights deal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Oscars' home renamed Dolby Theatre |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57425417/oscars-home-renamed-dolby-theatre/ |work=[[CBS News]] |access-date=May 1, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502081049/http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57425417/oscars-home-renamed-dolby-theatre/ |archive-date=May 2, 2012 }}</ref> Dolby updated the sound system first by installing [[Dolby Atmos]]. The company plans to continue updating the auditorium with newer technologies as they become available.<ref>{{cite web|title=Introducing the Dolby Theatre|url=http://www.dolbytheatre.com/|publisher=[[Dolby]]|access-date=May 1, 2012|archive-date=November 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171130140011/http://dolbytheatre.com/|url-status=live}}</ref>
Other events have included the [[American Film Institute|AFI]] [[AFI Life Achievement Award|Life Achievement Award]] to [[Tom Hanks]], the [[ESPY Awards]] for excellence in sports performance yearly, the [[BET Award]]s and ''[[American Idol]]'' finales. In April 2006, it was home to the [[33rd Daytime Emmy Awards]], and it hosted the [[34th Daytime Emmy Awards]] on June 15, 2007.


<gallery>
On March 20, 2004, 19-year-old [[Adán Sánchez]] became the youngest headliner to perform a sell-out concert at the theatre. He died in a car accident only seven days later.
File:Kodak Theatre (2571118260).jpg|center|The front facade of the Kodak Theatre
File:The-grand-staircase-of-Kodak-t--at-night.JPG|center|The Grand Staircase leading up to the Dolby Theatre
File:The entrance to the Dolby Theatre ahead of the 2022 Oscars.jpg|center|The entrance to the theatre ahead of the 2022 Oscars
</gallery>


== Other events ==
In 2005, [[Nintendo]] launched its latest game console, the [[Wii]], at the theatre before [[E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo)|E3]] began. [[Nintendo]] used the venue again in 2006 for its pre-E3 news conference. The 2007 [[Victoria's Secret]] Fashion Show was also held at the theatre for the first time, having been held in [[New York]] in previous years.
Besides the Academy Awards, the theatre has hosted other award presentations. The [[American Film Institute]] has held its [[AFI Life Achievement Award|Life Achievement Award]] gala at the theatre,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Haring|first=Bruce|date=May 4, 2021|title=Julie Andrews AFI Life Achievement Award Ceremony Gets New Date After Covid Postponement – Update|url=https://deadline.com/2021/05/afi-julie-andrews-life-achievement-award-date-1202876766/|access-date=July 11, 2022|website=Deadline Hollywood|language=en-US|archive-date=July 11, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711021254/https://deadline.com/2021/05/afi-julie-andrews-life-achievement-award-date-1202876766/|url-status=live}}</ref> It hosted the [[3rd Annual Latin Grammy Awards]] in 2002.


The theatre has also hosted the [[Miss USA]] pageant twice, in 2004 and 2007.
The venue hosted [[Miss USA 2004]] and [[Miss USA 2007]].


From September 2011 until early 2013, the venue hosted ''[[Iris (Cirque du Soleil)|Iris]]'', a [[Cirque du Soleil]] residency show inspired by the history of cinema.<ref name="closing">{{cite web |author=David Ng |author2=David Zahniser |date=November 30, 2012 |title=Cirque du Soleil's extravagant 'Iris' will close Jan. 19 |url=https://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-et-1201-cirque-closes-iris-20121201,0,7733200.story |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=April 17, 2020 |archive-date=December 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121209130829/http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-et-1201-cirque-closes-iris-20121201,0,7733200.story |url-status=live }}</ref> Significant changes were made to the theater to accommodate the show, including adding lifts deep under the original floor. It was announced on November 29, 2012, that ''Iris'' would close on January 19, 2013, after only two seasons, due to lack of profit.<ref name="closing" />
Nintendo once again borrowed the venue for their 2008 E3 Press Conference after holding their previous year's conference in [[Santa Monica]].


The reality music competition series ''[[American Idol]]'' hosted its season finales from the Dolby Theatre during its original run on [[Fox Broadcasting Company|Fox]] from 2002, 2004-2007, and 2015-2016. From 2016-2019 and 2021, the theatre hosted the live shows of the [[NBC]] reality competition series ''[[America's Got Talent]]''.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Angermiller |first=Michele Amabile |date=July 26, 2016 |title='America's Got Talent' Judges Simon Cowell & Mel B. Talk Going Live, Show's Promising Singers |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/americas-got-talent-simon-cowell-mel-b-live-show-singers-7453397/ |access-date=July 11, 2022 |magazine=Billboard |language=en-US |archive-date=July 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711020308/https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/americas-got-talent-simon-cowell-mel-b-live-show-singers-7453397/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
In December 2008, a production of "[[A Christmas Carol]]", adapted, produced and directed by Kevin Von Feldt and starring [[Christopher Lloyd]], [[John Goodman]] and [[Jane Leeves]] played sixteen performances over a two-week period.


The [[Sonic Symphony]] held a concert at the Dolby Theatre on September 30, 2023 featuring [[Johnny Gioeli]] and [[Jun Senoue]] of [[Crush 40]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Sonic Symphony Setlist at Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles, CA, USA|url=https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/sonic-symphony/2023/dolby-theatre-los-angeles-ca-4ba3cfce.html|date=September 30, 2023}}</ref>
In August 2009, the theatre hosted the ''[[So You Think You Can Dance (season 5)|So You Think You Can Dance]]'' finale for the first time.


The venue is set to host the [[MAMA Awards]] on November 21, 2024. <ref>{{Cite tweet |author=MAMA AWARDS |user=MnetMAMA |number=1813715644061524190 |title=BIG BLUR : What is Real? World's No.1 K-POP Awards 2024 MAMA AWARDS}}</ref>
On September 15, 2009, a concert by [[Italy|Italian]] [[tenor]] [[Andrea Bocelli]], was filmed in the Theatre. The concert was a [[Public Broadcasting Service|PBS]] [[Great Performances]] [[My Christmas Special|Christmas special of]] Bocelli's first ever [[Christmas music|Holiday album]], ''[[My Christmas]]''.


== See also ==
On January 9, 2010, Japanese metal band [[X Japan]] made their first U.S. public appearance on top of the Theatre recording four music videos for their songs "[[Rusty Nail (song)|Rusty Nail]]", "[[Jade (X Japan song)|Jade]]", "[[Endless Rain]]", and "[[I.V.]]".
{{Portal|Los Angeles}}
* [[List of music venues]]
* [[L.A. Live]]


== References ==
From September 2011 until early 2013, the venue was the home of the permanent Los Angeles resident [[Cirque Du Soleil]] show ''[[Iris (Cirque du Soleil)|Iris]]'', a 90 minute acrobatic journey through the world of cinema featuring an original score by [[Danny Elfman]]. The show made significant changes to the theatre, including adding lifts that go deep under the original floor of the space. It only leaves the theatre for the annual Academy Awards. It was announced on November 29, 2012 that the [[Cirque Du Soleil]] show ''[[Iris (Cirque du Soleil)|Iris]]'' would close on January 19, 2013 after two seasons failed to develop a profit. The theatre hosted the [[Academy Awards]] again on February 24, 2013, and is now expected to reopen for touring acts and headliners.
{{Reflist}}


==References==
== Bibliography ==
* {{cite book |last=Pond |first=Steve |title=The Big Show: High Times and Dirty Dealings Backstage at the Academy Awards |url=https://archive.org/details/bigshowhightimes00pond |year=2005 |location=New York |publisher=[[Faber and Faber]] |isbn=0-571-21193-3 |url-access=registration}}
{{Reflist|2}}


== External links ==
== External links ==
{{Commons category|Dolby Theatre}}
{{Portal|Los Angeles}}
* {{Official website}}
{{Commons category|Kodak Theatre}}
* [http://www.dolbytheatre.com/ Official Website of the Dolby Theatre]


{{s-start}}
{{Succession box
| title = Venues of the<br /> ''[[American Idol]]'' finale
| years = 2002<br />2004-2007
| before = first venue<br />[[Gibson Amphitheatre]]
| after = Gibson Amphitheatre<br />[[Nokia Theatre L.A. Live|Nokia Theatre]]
}}
{{Succession box
| title = Venues of the<br /> [[So You Think You Can Dance (U.S. TV series)|''So You Think You Can Dance'']] finale
| years = 2009-2012
| before = [[CBS Television City]]
| after = -
}}
{{end}}
{{Academy Awards venues}}
{{Academy Awards venues}}
{{BET Awards venues}}
{{BET Awards venues}}
{{Latin Grammy Award venues}}
{{Latin Grammy Award venues}}
{{Greater Hollywood}}
{{Greater Hollywood}}
{{Dolby Laboratories}}
{{Music venues of California}}


[[Category:Concert halls in the United States]]
[[Category:2001 establishments in California]]
[[Category:Landmarks in Los Angeles, California]]
[[Category:Theatres in Hollywood, California]]
[[Category:Kodak]]
[[Category:Academy Awards]]
[[Category:Academy Awards]]
[[Category:Concert halls in California]]
[[Category:Dolby Laboratories]]
[[Category:Hollywood Boulevard]]
[[Category:Landmarks in Los Angeles]]
[[Category:Music venues completed in 2001]]
[[Category:Music venues in Los Angeles]]
[[Category:Theatres in Hollywood, Los Angeles]]
[[Category:Theatres completed in 2001]]

Latest revision as of 05:24, 18 November 2024

Not to be confused with Dolphy Theatre.
This article is about the venue in Los Angeles. For the cinema screen concept, see Dolby Cinema. For the venue in Las Vegas, see Dolby Live.

Dolby Theatre
The front facade of the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, the actual theatre is at the rear of the complex.
Map
Interactive map of the Dolby Theatre's location
Former namesKodak Theatre (2001–2012)
Location6801 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, California
90028
Coordinates34°06′10″N 118°20′25″W / 34.10278°N 118.34028°W / 34.10278; -118.34028
Public transit B Line Hollywood/Highland
OwnerCanyon Partners
TypeIndoor theatre
Seating typeReserved
Capacity3,400[1]
Construction
Broke ground1997
Built2001
OpenedNovember 9, 2001; 23 years ago (2001-11-09)
Construction cost$94 million[2]
General contractorMcCarthy Building Companies
Website
dolbytheatre.com

The Dolby Theatre (formerly known as the Kodak Theatre) is a live-performance auditorium in the Ovation Hollywood shopping mall and entertainment complex, on Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, United States. Since its opening on November 9, 2001, it has been the venue of the annual Academy Awards ceremony. It's adjacent to Grauman's Chinese Theatre and across from the El Capitan Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard.

Besides the Academy Awards, the venue has hosted other concerts and theatrical performances.

Architecture

[edit]
A 2016 photo of the Art Deco column displaying the 2012 to 2015 recipients of the Academy Award for Best Picture at the bottom, and blank spaces at the top for the then-yet-to-be-determined 2016 and 2017 winners

The theater was designed by David Rockwell of the Rockwell Group specifically with the Oscar ceremonies in mind.[3] Though the stage is one of the largest in the United States—roughly tied with the Elliott Hall of Music at Purdue University—measuring 113 feet (34 m) wide and 60 feet (18 m) deep, its seating capacity is only about half that of the Hall of Music,[2] accommodating 3,332 people.

The auditorium has become known as a venue for televised theatrical performances (e.g., American Idol and the Academy Awards). The architectural team consulted extensively with leading production personnel in Hollywood, achieving a highly functional cable infrastructure, with an underground cable bunker that crosses under the theater to truck locations on adjacent streets. Power is also substantial and accessible. The theater has a unique Rockwell-designed cockpit in the orchestra seating area for camera, sound, and stage management.

The hall from the front entrance to the grand stairway (leading up to the theater at the rear of the shopping complex) is flanked by storefronts, as well as Art Deco columns displaying the names of past recipients of the Academy Award for Best Picture (with blank spaces left for future Best Picture winners, currently set up to 2071). In a fashion reminiscent of Hollywood movie-making, the building is dressed before the Academy Awards ceremony, sometimes with a different sign on its façade, red drapery to hide its storefronts, and the famous red carpet running up its grand stairway.

History

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The theater was developed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to overcome logistical issues it faced hosting the Academy Awards at other venues, such as the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Shrine Auditorium.[4] In August 1997, AMPAS and Canadian development firm TrizecHahn went into negotiations over the development of an entertainment complex located on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue adjacent to the Mann's Chinese Theatre.[5] Seven months later, both the Academy and TrizecHahn agreed on a twenty-year lease that allowed for the ceremony to be staged at the new venue.[6][7]

The Academy Awards were first hosted at the new theater for its 74th edition in 2002, marking the first time it was held in Hollywood since the 32nd ceremony at the Pantages Theatre in 1960.[6] It has been the venue for all Academy Awards ceremonies held since, with the only exception being the 93rd Academy Awards in 2021—which were downsized and moved to Union Station due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[8]

The theater was sponsored, until February 2012, by the Eastman Kodak Company, which paid $75 million for naming rights to the building.[9] In early 2012, Eastman Kodak filed for bankruptcy protection, thus ending its naming-rights deal. Then the theater's name was temporarily changed to the Hollywood and Highland Center[10] at the suggestion of the venue's landlord.[11]

On May 1, 2012, it was announced that the venue would be renamed the Dolby Theatre, after Dolby Laboratories signed a 20-year naming rights deal.[12] Dolby updated the sound system first by installing Dolby Atmos. The company plans to continue updating the auditorium with newer technologies as they become available.[13]

  • The front facade of the Kodak Theatre
    The front facade of the Kodak Theatre
  • The Grand Staircase leading up to the Dolby Theatre
    The Grand Staircase leading up to the Dolby Theatre
  • The entrance to the theatre ahead of the 2022 Oscars
    The entrance to the theatre ahead of the 2022 Oscars

Other events

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Besides the Academy Awards, the theatre has hosted other award presentations. The American Film Institute has held its Life Achievement Award gala at the theatre,[14] It hosted the 3rd Annual Latin Grammy Awards in 2002.

The venue hosted Miss USA 2004 and Miss USA 2007.

From September 2011 until early 2013, the venue hosted Iris, a Cirque du Soleil residency show inspired by the history of cinema.[15] Significant changes were made to the theater to accommodate the show, including adding lifts deep under the original floor. It was announced on November 29, 2012, that Iris would close on January 19, 2013, after only two seasons, due to lack of profit.[15]

The reality music competition series American Idol hosted its season finales from the Dolby Theatre during its original run on Fox from 2002, 2004-2007, and 2015-2016. From 2016-2019 and 2021, the theatre hosted the live shows of the NBC reality competition series America's Got Talent.[16]

The Sonic Symphony held a concert at the Dolby Theatre on September 30, 2023 featuring Johnny Gioeli and Jun Senoue of Crush 40.[17]

The venue is set to host the MAMA Awards on November 21, 2024. [18]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "About the Dolby Theatre". Dolby Theatre. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved June 19, 2015.
  2. ^ a b "Profile". Kodak Theatre. Archived from the original on April 16, 2012. Retrieved May 2, 2012.
  3. ^ John Calhoun (April 1, 2002). "A Kodak Moment". Live Design Online. Archived from the original on April 27, 2012. Retrieved February 14, 2012.
  4. ^ Pond 2005, p. 160
  5. ^ Zehrq, Leonard (August 29, 1997). "TrizecHahn in talks to house the Oscars Wants ceremony in Hollywood project". The Globe and Mail.
  6. ^ a b Newton, Jim (April 3, 1998). "Mayor Leads a Hurray for Hollywood". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on February 21, 2014. Retrieved January 21, 2014.
  7. ^ Feiwell, Jill (June 7, 2001). "Oscar will have Kodak moment". Variety. Archived from the original on February 22, 2014. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
  8. ^ Maddus, Gene (March 15, 2021). "Oscars to Broadcast From L.A.'s Union Station and Dolby Theatre". Variety. Archived from the original on March 24, 2021. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
  9. ^ "Kodak Theatre". Kodak Theatre. Archived from the original on April 16, 2012. Retrieved February 14, 2012.
  10. ^ Finke, Nikki (May 1, 2012). "Kodak Theatre – Oscars Keeps Home At Hollywood & Highland In Newly Named Dolby Theatre". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on September 4, 2012. Retrieved October 13, 2012.
  11. ^ Higgins, Kat. "Goodbye Kodak: New Name For The Home Of The Oscars". Sky News. Archived from the original on February 28, 2012. Retrieved February 25, 2012.
  12. ^ "Oscars' home renamed Dolby Theatre". CBS News. Archived from the original on May 2, 2012. Retrieved May 1, 2012.
  13. ^ "Introducing the Dolby Theatre". Dolby. Archived from the original on November 30, 2017. Retrieved May 1, 2012.
  14. ^ Haring, Bruce (May 4, 2021). "Julie Andrews AFI Life Achievement Award Ceremony Gets New Date After Covid Postponement – Update". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on July 11, 2022. Retrieved July 11, 2022.
  15. ^ a b David Ng; David Zahniser (November 30, 2012). "Cirque du Soleil's extravagant 'Iris' will close Jan. 19". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on December 9, 2012. Retrieved April 17, 2020.
  16. ^ Angermiller, Michele Amabile (July 26, 2016). "'America's Got Talent' Judges Simon Cowell & Mel B. Talk Going Live, Show's Promising Singers". Billboard. Archived from the original on July 11, 2022. Retrieved July 11, 2022.
  17. ^ "Sonic Symphony Setlist at Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles, CA, USA". September 30, 2023.
  18. ^ MAMA AWARDS [@MnetMAMA] (July 17, 2024). "BIG BLUR : What is Real? World's No.1 K-POP Awards 2024 MAMA AWARDS" (Tweet) – via Twitter.

Bibliography

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