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The Junín Theater is perhaps the clearest example of emerging cinema in the Caracas urban life of the fifties. In July 1950, its neon lights lit up to premiere Disney’s animated classic «Cinderella». This Art Deco theater was designed by American John Eberson. Located on a lot between party walls that included the corner where the access was designed, it had the typical features of downtown theaters: orchestra seating with a center aisle and a luxurious balcony. The building enhances the square’s urban space, with a curved vertical six-story body, supported by three columns that allow access to the double height hall. Under the marquee, the access leads to a circular lobby. A magnificent staircase leads to the balcony foyer. The refinement in details can be seen in the upholstered seats, and in the railings and banisters with Art Deco supports, consistent with the spiral of light illuminating the hall. The inside atmosphere is obtained by receding the mouth of the proscenium behind a curved piece with two false boxes at the ends. With a capacity for 1218 spectators, this theater marked the beginning of luxury theater construction. This architectural monument has suffered countless mistreatments, despite being declared National Cultural Heritage. Its blueprints are part of the John and Drew Eberson Architectural Records Archive, at the Wolfsonian Florida International University Museum.
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