Nearly 100-Year-Old Loew’s Jersey Theatre to Reopen in November: Inside the $130M Restoration

The Loew’s Jersey Theatre, a nearly century-old venue located in the heart of Jersey City's Journal Square, is scheduled to reopen on November 13, 2022. The grand re-opening event will feature a performance from the Trey Anastasio Band. The theater, one of the "Loew’s Wonder Theatres" built between the 1920s and 1930s, is set to undergo a comprehensive $130 million restoration project.

This project is a collaborative effort between the Jersey City Redevelopment Agency (JCRA), the State of New Jersey/New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), the company that also operates the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, and White Eagle Hall in Jersey City.

Originally designed as a 3,021-seat movie house by renowned architects Rapp and Rapp, the theatre has been in limited use for over four decades. However, its potential was recognized by the city, which had been considering demolition of the building. Thanks to a local preservationists' efforts, the theatre was saved, and the redevelopment project began in 2021.

The restored venue now offers flexible seating arrangements, accommodating between 2,600 to 4,000 guests for concerts, live performances, sporting events, film screenings, and more.

The city's acquisition of the theatre in 1993 and HBSE's involvement in the renovation project in 2021 played a significant role in the venue's revitalization. The theatre's new location, easily accessible by car, PATH train, and New Jersey Transit, makes it an ideal destination for both local and interstate visitors. The architecture of the theatre itself is considered a major asset, providing a visually appealing experience for patrons.

As Sean Saadeh, HBSE's chief programming officer and head of entertainment, explains, the theatre's historical architecture appeals to artists looking for venues with character and to fans who seek an immersive experience.