The Empire Theatre was originally built by prominent Glens Falls businessmen, with Addison Colvin as the first president and general manager of the Empire Estate and Theatre Company. The theatre is a three story neo-classical building designed by J.B. McEphattrick of New York City. Opening night was October 6, 1899 with the play “Way Down East.” Shortly after the turn of the century, the theatre competed with local movie houses such as the Rialto and Paramount to show motion pictures, but by the 1940’s the theatre was losing money. The building was transformed into an office building in 1950 and one of the area’s most beautiful theatres came to an end.
The rebirth of the theatre by the Kaidas family commenced in 2008. The renovation of the building was done with a concerted effort to maintain its original grandeur. Historical details and architectural elements were preserved in the building whenever possible and the exterior charm retained with the utmost care. The new Empire Theatre Plaza has been converted into a “mixed use” building with retail and office space on the first and second floors, and premiere two-story apartments accessed from the third floor. The renovated building features secure electronic after-hours entry, a fully integrated security, fire and sprinkler system, and a new elevator for access to all floors.
RETAIL: An excellent opportunity for the retail user, new retail space is currently available on the first floor. This space features hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, and high ceilings. The large storefront windows offer plenty of natural light and high visibility from busy South Street. Directly off the Empire Theatre Plaza’s main entrance lobby, the space also features a large outdoor seating area, surrounded by new metal fencing and awning cover above.
OFFICES: The second floor Class A offices are modern, elevator accessible and centrally located in downtown Glens Falls, providing you and your employees convenient access to the city’s many conveniences.
RESIDENTIAL: The eleven apartments at the Empire Theatre Plaza offer modern amenities in a historic setting. Situated on the upper floors of the theatre, the apartments are accessed by stairs or elevator. Each unique unit features original theatre elements incorporated into their design. Modern kitchens include granite countertops and stainless appliances and are incorporated into the living and dining area’s open floor plan. Two-story layouts offer comfortable living space accented by high ceilings, large windows and hardwood floors throughout. Each unit is equipped with private clothes washer and dryer. See the best downtown living that Glens Falls has to offer!