Our main programming objectives at the Art Theatre of Long Beach focus on celebrating and preserving the art of cinema while creating an inclusive and engaging cultural space for our community. As a historic single-screen movie theater, we present films of artistic, cultural, and historical significance, emphasizing diversity and representation through our selection process. Our anchor art programs include annual community film festivals such as the Cambodia Town Film Festival and the Queer Film Festival, alongside curated film series that feature panel discussions and guest speakers, offering audiences an enriched viewing experience and educational opportunities.
The Art Theatre shows special screenings through film series such as “A Century of Cinema”, an ongoing celebration of the history of the movies, “The Art After Dark”, a late-night member series, screening single-showing specially curated films, and the “Art 11 Film Series”. Presenting the best recently acclaimed documentary and international cinema to our historic screen, the “Art 11 Series” is held on select Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 am.
In addition to our daily programming and film festivals, the Art Theatre offers a Film and Speakers Series twice a month, showing relevant documentaries combined with Q&A with filmmakers that allow an opportunity for community discussion, engagement, and learning. We also work with local schools and community organizations to host free special screenings for students and local events with nonprofits that support our community. Our goal is to engage as many people as possible in thought and discussion.