An explorer has discovered an abandoned and crumbling auditorium that was once a glittering “movie palace”.
Dave, known for his Freaktography account, found the rotting Paramount Theatre of Newark after researching its history online.
Originally called H.C. Miner’s Newark Theatre, the building first opened its doors on 11 October 1886.
READ MORE: Urban explorer discovers creepy abandoned animal testing lab
- Advertisement -
It started as a vaudeville venue, managed by the Hyde & Behman Amusement Co., a theatre management company based in Brooklyn.
But now it is abandoned and dilapidated, waiting to be saved from destruction.
“Even today, the old Paramount Theatre proudly displays its vertical ‘Paramount’ sign and the ‘Newark’ marquee,” Dave, from Canada, told What’s The Jam.
“Unfortunately, the theater shut down around April 1986 due to a spike in insurance costs.
“Since then, the lobby has been repurposed for various retail pop-up shops, including an Army and Navy surplus store.”
- Advertisement -
Images from outside show a once popular theatre, with its beaming Newark sign and boarded up windows.
Once inside, rotting walls can be seen as well as dirty floors and peeling plasterboard.
The roof appears to be caved in, with wires hanging among fallen debris.
- Advertisement -
The steps are also covered in rubble and dirt while the stage is barely visible.
Chairs are coated in mould and the once red chairs have turned green.
No one knows what is to become of the building.
Dave added: “There are rumours of plans to turn the site into a multi-use entertainment complex.
“However, this will involve demolishing the auditorium, leaving only the front facade intact.
“During the winter of 2020-2021, part of the auditorium roof collapsed under the weight of heavy snowfall.”
READ MORE: British explorer discovers ‘dilapidated’ crypt with coffins and trolleys left to rot
