La Reina Theater

I think it is important to point out that a great deal more than the “facade” of the noted La Reina theater will be saved in the construction of the La Reina Plaza luxury shopping center proposed by developer Dennis Bass. The City of Los Angeles’ Cultural Heritage Commission made it clear they expect more than such tokenism when they declared the theater an official historic monument.

Maxwell Starkman & Associates, architects for the project, have developed a plan that will save virtually the entire building and will restore its exterior to the original design created by noted architect S. Charles Lee.

Portions of the theater marquee which have been boarded over will be replaced with glass panels identical to the original and the distinctive tower will be restored to its historical elegance. The familiar marble outdoor entryway will also be completely restored.

In addition, the Art Deco theme which makes the La Reina so unusual will be reflected throughout the two-story luxury plaza, making a significant contribution to the Sherman Oaks community.

JACKIE BRAINARD

Sherman Oaks