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Throwback: Irving Theater reopens after massive renovations

Posted at 6:56 AM, Nov 02, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-02 06:56:39-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- Thirty years ago this month, the Irving Theater reopened after undergoing a massive renovation. 

Located at 5505 E Washington St., the Irving was the main east side theater for years. It was a family-owned operation until the late 60s when it was sold to a group of investors.

The new owners changed the theater's name to The Festival and began showing adult movies. After a lengthy legal battle, the theater was shut down in the late 70s. 

In 1987, five local investors rehabilitated the building. Everything from plumbing and electrical, to the movie screen and chairs were brought back into working order.

Today, Irving Theater still operates and hosts live music, film screenings and poetry.

Head back to 1987 with Channel 6's Howard Caldwell in this RTV6 throwback in the video player above.  

MORE THROWBACKS | Children's Museum Haunted House and popular costumes in 1982The last time Garth Brooks performed in IndyThrowback: 1987 Indianapolis Ramada Inn plane crashThrowback: 1977 traffic cop conducts symphony of sound on Monument Circle

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