Midtown Moments: The Royal Theater

By Joseph Conte

A much-needed escape into the world of film for the community during tough times

The Royal Theater located on the 22nd Street South, opened it’s doors to the public in 1948. The black community received the opening with great joy and festivities. The theater was kept in operation throughout 1966 and was one of only two movie theaters providing films for African-Americans during the divided time of segregation.