The 100-year-old Highland movie theatre in LA was set to shut down — until Kristen Stewart stepped in

Whatever you do, giving back should always be included as a crucial element. The famous Highland Theatre in Los Angeles has historically been a source of pride since 1925, according to The Architectural Digest. Unfortunately, the space was unable to cope with the economic conditions after the pandemic and closed its doors in 2024, a year shy of its 100th anniversary, according to the Los Angeles Times. That’s when actor Kristen Stewart stepped up. While on the lookout for a space to display her work, she came across the helpless theatre and decided it shouldn’t lose its roots on account of finances. Stewart purchased the building in mid-2025 with a mission and a dream to restore it with the pride it always deserved. Now, nearing its 101st birthday on March 5, 2026, the Highland Theatre is being transformed into its best version, dipped in nostalgia, serving modern needs.

When Stewart was on the lookout for a space, she came across the historical theatre. Along with it, she learned everything it held, along with the art of the past and a century's worth of significance. “I ran toward it with everything I had,” she remarked. The “Twilight” actor noted how old-time spaces had a special place in her heart. “I always want to see what mysteries they hold,” she added. So as Stewart took on the responsibility of restoring a piece of heritage, she knew it had to be more than just a vintage building. Apart from restoration, the actor plans to build a school inside and add to the offerings the theatre holds. “We want to make it a family affair, something for the community. It's not just for pretentious Hollywood cinephiles,” Stewart shared. 

The theatre isn’t just going to find its roots as a stage for talent; it's going to hold the true getaway that the art of acting and the arts can be. “I see it as an antidote to all the corporate bullshit, a place that takes movie culture away from just buying and selling,” the actor noted. So what’s so special about this theatre in LA that's got Stewart bent on restoring it to its glory days? It's the location. With LA being a big part of Stewart’s life, she had found appreciation in the community and the art. As the actor puts it, when she comes to LA, she can “breathe.” Another reason she noted was that watching movies in the theatre has become a forgotten tradition. She hopes the Highlands space will make filmmaking a “service” that families can come and enjoy together. 

However, this task is gonna be easier said than done. It’s a big project to take on, but the actor is certain that it will come through. She admitted that the place is falling apart. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it,” she said. According to findings from American Theatre, Dr. Jennifer Benoit-Bryan, Executive Director of SMU Data Arts, shares the following statistics: Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the number of theatre goers has decreased by 34%. A comparison of ticket sales of around 100 theatres showed a 28% increase since then, but it's still much lower than before. This hints at a major turning point in the history of theatre as more people turn to portable screens.

Image Source: Instagram| @britnelsoninteriors

The Hollywood Reporter shared findings from Broadway's 2024-2025 data, and the number of suburbanites has dropped to its “lowest” since the last 30 years (12.6%). The highest percentage of theatre goers comprised audiences of other U.S. cities and states (42.1%). Performing and watching theatre is an art of old that should not be forgotten, and in some essence, Stewart hopes to bring that back. @catpaulk wrote, “We have always said we hope someone buys and saves this theater!!! This is the best news ever!” @nicolereber added, “This is going to be something so awesome for the community.” 

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