Grauman's Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard is arguably the most famous movie theatre in the country. Of course it's famous for the cement footprints in the front court area, but it's also known for the spectacular neon that graced the façade, especially the two dragons that faced each other since 1958.
In 2001, both dragons were removed and disappeared from public view until now, when you can see one of the dragons fully restored, thanks to the Museum of Neon Art in Glendale (aka MONA).
It took about eleven years of fundraising and restoration, and it was TOTALLY worth it. The sound of the mechanism as the neon inches up to the head of the dragon is like music to Eric Lynxwiler's ears (more on him in future posts!).
See more Museum of Neon Art photos at my main website.
Yowza ---this post flashes with that classic Hollywood pizzazz. Love the life-sized Lana Turner poster, and wonder if it was targeted for theft by delinquent fans. Seeing as Lucy and Ethel committed larceny just a few steps away...
ReplyDeleteThat was a classic I Love Lucy episode!
ReplyDeleteWalking in under those dragons must've felt pretty cool when they were first installed!
ReplyDelete