Arlington Theatre | Santa Barbara

The Arlington Theatre is one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic and beloved landmarks, known for its rich history, distinctive architecture, and continued cultural significance in the community. Located in downtown Santa Barbara, it stands as a testament to the city’s cultural vibrancy and dedication to the arts. Here is a detailed look at its history, architecture, and significance:

History & Origins

Opening: The Arlington Theatre opened its doors on May 22, 1931, designed by the architectural firm Edwards and Plunkett. The venue was built to replace the original Arlington Hotel, which was destroyed in the devastating 1925 Santa Barbara earthquake.

Original Purpose: It was initially designed as a lavish movie palace by Fox West Coast Theatres and became a significant cultural hub for film screenings in the region.

Santa Barbara International Film Festival: The Arlington has served as a key venue for the festival for many years, further solidifying its status in the city's cultural scene.

Architectural Design

The Arlington Theatre is one of the best examples of the "atmospheric" theater style, which was popular during the 1920s and 1930s. Atmospheric theaters were designed to give audiences the feeling of being outdoors under a sky filled with stars.

Atmospheric Design: The theater’s design evokes the feeling of an open-air Spanish courtyard. The auditorium is intended to resemble a Spanish village, with balconies, staircases, and an intricate ceiling designed to imitate a twilight sky. The ceiling is dotted with small twinkling lights, creating a starry-night effect.

Style: The building features Spanish Colonial Revival and Mission Revival styles. These architectural choices blend traditional Spanish elements with an American interpretation, creating a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere that transports visitors to a different time.

Robert-Morton Pipe Organ: A particularly unique feature of the Arlington Theatre is its 4-manual, 27-rank Robert-Morton pipe organ, which was originally installed at Loew's Jersey Theatre in 1929 and moved to the Arlington in 1949. It is known as a "Wonder Morton" organ, one of only five such organs ever created. The organ is hidden beneath the orchestra floor and rises into view during performances, providing a special spectacle for the audience.

Cultural & Entertainment Hub

Events & Performances: Throughout its history, the Arlington Theatre has served as a venue for a wide range of cultural and entertainment events. These include movie screenings, live concerts, theater performances, dance recitals, and special events such as film festivals and community gatherings.

Santa Barbara International Film Festival: The theater is one of the main venues for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF), which draws filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from around the world. The festival regularly hosts red carpet events, film premieres, and award ceremonies at the Arlington, highlighting its importance in the film community.

Concerts & Live Performances: In addition to films, the Arlington hosts a variety of live performances, including concerts from world-renowned musicians, orchestras, and popular bands. Past performers include jazz legends, classical ensembles, pop stars, and Latin music icons.

Recent & Upcoming Events

The Arlington Theatre continues to host an exciting lineup of events. Some notable upcoming performances include:

The Sleeping Beauty – May 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Wynton Marsalis Ensemble – May 17, 2025, at 7:30 PM

Alicia Villarreal – May 30, 2025, at 8:00 PM

Pedro Fernández – June 6, 2025, at 8:00 PM

Luis Angel "El Flaco" & Luis Antonio Lopez “El Mimoso” – August 23, 2025, at 8:00 PM

Band of Horses and Iron & Wine – October 3, 2025, at 8:00 PM

Aly & AJ – November 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Location

Address: 1317 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

The Arlington Theatre remains a vital part of Santa Barbara’s artistic and cultural fabric, offering a venue where history, art, and entertainment converge. Whether for a night of cinema, a musical performance, or a film festival event, the Arlington provides an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.