Interior of the Metro Theater before it was gutted

It all begins with the opening of a curtain or the first light flickering onto a screen. We have all enjoyed getting lost in the collective imagination and transcendence that we find in the dark.

These are the personal experiences of our friends and neighbors in the Upper West Side who would like to continue that tradition in the Upper West Side’s Metro Theater.

Sweet dreams are made of these

Craig Sumberg

Friends of Metro Theater Board President
“As a long-time lover of historic theaters, it saddens me to see the Metro Theater in disrepair. With the right vision and people, it will become a beloved community asset once again.”
Gerry Segal

Musician ✧ Upper West Sider
“I have had many happy experiences at the Metro Theater. I want to make it into a vibrant, living place again.”
Lauren Flick

Writer ✧ Director
“Film is more than entertainment. It is a reflection of who we are as a society. My dream is that Metro Theater returns to its original form - a true cinema.”
Angelica Diaz

Voiceover Actress
“Turn Metro Theater into a space for kids to be on stage, giving them hope and opportunity. That's what acting did for me.”
Jack Mulcahy

Actor
“As a child, I saw West Side Story three times at Metro Theater. I told my mom, ‘I'm gonna be an actor.’ It can be the center of our cultural revival.”
Brian Wallinger

Producer ✧ Film Critic
“The Metro Theater can ensure that film is seen the way it was intended, by a live audience in a theatrical setting.”
Liza Cooper

Writer ✧ Photographer
“I'm a romantic. Make Metro Theater a performance space with a flower shop to get your love an artisanal bouquet.”
Keith Harris

Community Organizer
“I had my first date in Metro Theater and I’d love to go back. Let's transform the space with technology: eSports, a headset at each seat, rooftop performances.”
Liam Y.

Gamer ✧ Movie Buff
“I want Metro Theater to be a real movie complex - big screens, reclining chairs, snack bars and the newest blockbusters.”
Raymond Baldwin

Prime Minister of the Upper West Side ✧ Musician
“Metro Theater can be a beautiful shrine to music for performers and kids who want to play songs.”
Sonni Mun

Physician ✧ Activist
“It's just a gorgeous, art deco piece of history. It should be preserved. “
Benjamin Wolf

Cinematographer ✧ Professor of Filmmaking
“Film is the dreamscape of the 21st century, an essential form of communication. Metro Theater can be its glorious host.”
Photos: jsilkphoto.com