Six months ago, the screen went dark at the Picture House in Pelham—for good reason: the venue received a much-needed sprucing-up, undergoing a $1.1 million renovation.
Today, it’s a brand-new auditorium. Stiff seats and dreary fabric were ripped out of the floors and walls to make room for newer, more comfortable seating (with cupholders!) and acoustical panels. The lobby now includes a concession area befitting a regal movie palace—and better snacks, too, from Provisions, which is practically next door.
And, perhaps the best part: the Picture House hasn’t lost an ounce of its historic charm. In fact, renovating uncovered a couple of surprises: behind the current screen was an older one that dated back to the silent-film era, and workers also uncovered six double-hung windows. The windows were preserved, as was a gorgeous Palladian window above the lobby.
So, what’s playing? The Reel Insider and the An Evening With series continue to give sneak previews of upcoming films. In addition, look for three new series: TopDocs, for documentaries; Global Lens, showing world cinema to promote cross-cultural understanding; and Women on Film, hosted by critic Caryn James. For more information, call (914) 738-3161 or visit thepicturehouse.org.
