The final credits will soon be rolling for the Grand Illusion Cinema’s U District location — the volunteer-run organization is looking to move after its building owners decided not to renew its lease.
Originally founded in 1970 as The Movie House, the Grand Illusion Theater has long-served as a venue where locals could catch foreign + hard-to-come-by indie films. But after its building sold in 2023, the theater is hoping to come back with a sequel.
While the owners don’t have a new location specifically selected, they’re trying to keep operations within the U District neighborhood. With a closure slated for January 31, 2025, the arthouse film center is looking for community support to keep the film reels spinning.
Here’s how Seattle cinephiles can help out:
- Keep watching the theater’s curated screenings — easy peasy, right?
- Subscribe to its newsletter + follow Grand Illusion on social media — don’t miss out on those special screening announcements. it will
- Donate — cash will help the theater continue its magic in whatever location it decides to hop into.
- Become a member — it’s tax deductible with only a $40 maximum right now.
Once the theater closes in January, it will be partnering with the Northwest Film Forum to host pop-up screenings — so stay tuned.
