Seattle Culture
Grand Illusion is Moving — But It’s Not Going Far
Help Seattle’s volunteer-run cinema find a new home
By Sarah Stackhouse October 2, 2024
After more than 50 years of screenings in the U District, the Grand Illusion Cinema is losing its lease. The historic arthouse, which has been a staple of Seattle’s film scene since 1970, will have to move from its 1403 N.E. 50th St. location by February 2025 — but it’s not the end of the story.
“Our plan has always been to relocate the cinema and build an even grander Grand Illusion,” says Executive Director Brian Alter. “Now we are moving up the timing of that relocation plan.”
The Grand Illusion, known for its red velvet curtains, pressed tin ceiling, and cozy atmosphere, has operated as a nonprofit since 2004 and is the only 100% volunteer-run cinema in the country. A small group of more than 30 volunteers has kept the theater alive through decades of changes. Now, with the building sold and the lease ending, they’re asking for help to secure a new home.
The cinema has launched a relocation campaign, with a goal of staying in the U District. “It will take time and money to recreate the magic,” says Alter. “We’re confident this is possible, and we need our community’s support to make this happen.”
The Grand Illusion has always been more than just a place to watch new movies. As the city’s first arthouse cinema, its eclectic programming — ranging from foreign films and cult classics to late-night oddities — has made it a favorite for Seattlites. Right now, it’s showing the 1999 horror movie Ravenous (which is the scariest thing I’ve ever seen) in 35mm and the 1922 silent film Nosferatu (paired with Radiohead’s Kid A and Amnesiac) as part of its Silent Synched series, along with other interesting picks.
The cinema will close its doors at the current location on Friday, Jan. 31. While it searches for a new space, Grand Illusion is partnering with Northwest Film Forum to host pop-up screenings around the city. More information about those pop-ups will be announced in the coming months.
Want to help? You can make a donation to support the relocation effort.
Follow Us
Seattle Author Wins Pulitzer Prize
Tessa Hulls wins for Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir
Seattle author Tessa Hulls has added a Pulitzer Prize to her growing list of accolades for Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir. The 2025 Pulitzers were announced May 5. Feeding Ghosts won in the “Memoir or Autobiography” category. As Seattle magazine wrote in a profile of Hulls last year, Feeding Ghosts “braids together the narratives of…
These Cultural Landmarks Honor Seattle’s AANHPI Community
Here’s an overview of some notable spots and happenings
The first Asian American immigrants landed in Seattle in the 1860s, just a decade after the city’s founding in 1852. Seattle is plentiful with sites that tell crucial stories about Seattle’s Asian American community, whether you choose to learn about historic neighborhoods and buildings in the International District or browse sculptures and paintings at the…
Book Excerpt: Old White Man Writing
Seattle resident Joshua Gidding examines his own white privilege
In his book, Old White Man Writing, Seattle resident Joshua Gidding attempts to come to terms with his privilege. Gidding grapples with the rapidly changing cultural norms in 21st-century America while examining his own racial biases and prejudices. As Manhattan Book Review notes: “Old White Man Writing is an introspective deep dive into an eventful life…
Glacial Expressions
Local scientist and painter Jill Pelto spotlights climate change in a multi-artist show at Slip Gallery
The divide between the arts and sciences is long-fostered and well-documented. From elementary school onward, children are often singled out for their penchant for math or artistic ability and guided toward classes — and later careers — that align with their right or left brain tendencies. For Jill Pelto — a local climate scientist, painter,…