Clio Logo
Hinton Historic District Walking Tour
Item 9 of 12
The Ritz opened in 1929 as a movie theater. The theater originally had a rectangular marquee – which, by 1949, had been replaced by an elaborate, triangular structure that featured neon and streamline moderne speed lines. That marquee was later removed, as was the box office beneath it. In 1964, it was remodeled. The theater continued showing films into at least the early 1980s. Following a period of closure and renovation, the Ritz Theatre reopened its doors in October 2009 – celebrating its 80th Anniversary. Its 310-seat auditorium still features original art deco elements, such as eye-catching wall sconces, seats with speed lines, and stepped doorframes. On the second floor, it hosts both a radio studio (for Hinton’s 1380 AM) and a balcony with additional seating. The Ritz shows movies on the weekends and also offers live entertainment.

Ritz Theater in June 2017

Ritz Theater in June 2017

Ritz Theater, ca. 1930 (from West Virginia & Regional History Center)

Ritz Theater, ca. 1930 (from West Virginia & Regional History Center)

Ritz Theater ca. 1960 (from West Virginia & Regional History Center)

Ritz Theater ca. 1960 (from West Virginia & Regional History Center)

Ritz Theater ca. 1960 (from West Virginia & Regional History Center)

Ritz Theater ca. 1960 (from West Virginia & Regional History Center)