One month after acquiring the century-old Highland Theater in Los Angeles' Highland Park, Kristen Stewart has begun restoration efforts on the landmark, set to mark its 101st anniversary on March 5. The project will transform the venue into a community space for independent films, education, and local gatherings, countering industry challenges.
Following her purchase announced last month, actor and director Kristen Stewart is actively restoring the Highland Theater, a Los Angeles Historical-Cultural Monument designed by Lewis Arthur Smith. Opened in 1925 for vaudeville and classic films—briefly adult films in the 1970s—the theater closed in 2024 amid post-pandemic woes, its marquee last featuring Madame Web.
Restoration is progressing toward the March 5, 2026, milestone, with plans to preserve ornate details while adding modern features like a potential film school. "It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it," Stewart noted, envisioning a 'family affair' antidote to corporate film culture. The initiative addresses declining theater attendance: SMU Data Arts reports a 34% drop from pre-pandemic levels, despite recent upticks at select venues; Broadway suburban figures hit 30-year lows.
Complementing her directorial debut The Chronology of Water (2025), Stewart supports LA's Downtown Women’s Center amid homelessness challenges: "LA is drowning in inadequacy." Social media has embraced the news, with fans hailing it as 'the best news ever' for community cinema.
Highland Park lacks local theaters, filling a gap near options in Eagle Rock and Silver Lake. Recent screen appearances include Marvel's Wonder Man and David Fincher's The Adventures of Cliff Booth. This project underscores Stewart's indie commitment, even as she eyes European productions.