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Dryden Theatre Campaign

The Dryden Theatre, opened in 1951, is the largest archival screening facility in the U.S., with a capacity of 535. It also is one of only four facilities in North America approved for the screening of nitrate film. As the screening facility showcasing Eastman House's film collection and preservation activities, the Dryden Theatre is a critical component of the Museum's mission to interpret and provide access to its motion picture collection.

Critical to the Eastman House's continued ability to exhibit motion pictures in every film format, including digital feed, is the renovation of the Dryden Theatre. Key components of this project include:

• The renovation of the projection booth, including replacing the original projection equipment, built in 1937 and installed in 1951.
• The replacement of the Dryden Theatre's sound equipment and lighting system with state-of-the-art equipment
• Expansion of the Dryden's screen to allow for appropriate projection of 70 mm and other wide format films
• Restoration of the historic screen curtain
• New seating

These improvements will provide the best possible viewing experience for our audiences as they watch everything from archival films to the latest in motion picture digital technology.

Dryden Theatre Campaign Contact