The Value of Arts in the Community: More Than Entertainment

Since the beginning of the 20^th century, Babylon Village has not been without an arts and entertainment venue.

A Quick Timeline:

Early 1900s – 1914

The Alhambra Hall was an early center of community activities showing movies in the early-1900s in addition to live performances, dances, etc. Movies ceased to be shown there when it was sold to the Odd Fellows in February 1914 for a reported $13,300. The site is currently used for retail and was the site of the Suffrage Study Club.

1913 – 1922

The Babylon Theatre: Ground was broken for the original Babylon Theatre on January 24, 1913. It opened on April 15, 1913 and was closed in July 1922. Movies and vaudeville acts were featured.

1922 – 1924

The Capitol Theatre: Located on W. Main Street, just west of Deer Park Avenue. The Capitol Theatre was built in a Colonial Revival style, seating was provided for 1,050 in orchestra and balcony levels. It was equipped with a Wurlitzer organ. The property entered into bankruptcy and closed on December 20, 1924.

1925 – 2014

The Capitol reopened under new ownership with the name Babylon Theatre in February 1925. In later years it was operated by Prudential Theatres (1929). After a fire on April 3, 1955, it was remodeled. Later operated by United Artists it became a triplex on December 14, 1984. It was then operated by Clearview, and as of June 2013 it was operated by Bow-Tie Cinemas with a total capacity for 688. The Babylon Cinemas was closed on September 7, 2014.

2018 - Present

It re-opened as the 500-seat Argyle Theatre on April 21, 2018 Not only has the Argyle brought first class entertainment to Babylon Village, but is has established Babylon as a destination for quality entertainment. Audiences from other parts of the Island and beyond come to Babylon, not just for entertainment, but for a dining or shopping experience while they are here for a show.

The Many Ways Art Enriches a Community

The role of arts in a community is more than just a way to offer entertainment.

In this era of social media and isolation, it fosters a social connection, bringing people together in a real and tangible way. Watching a show alone on television can’t compare with the shared experience of laughter or a dramatic moment with an audience. Arranging a night or afternoon out with friends or family through the arts is a way of maintaining social connection.

The presence of art in community lends to its identity. A vibrant and important theatre such as the Argyle lends prestige to the Village.

Lastly, the presence of the arts in a community drives economic development. The role of arts and entertainment in a community is not to just offer a few hours of entertainment, but to also provide an opportunity for the visiting public to support local businesses and create a thriving downtown.

Have you seen the outside of the newly renovated Argyle Theatre? They have retained a neon “Babylon” sign as a nod to the past while providing Babylon Village with the highest quality entertainment.

Take a drive by, especially at night. It’s beautiful. Many thanks to Mark and Dylan Perlman for providing a first-class theatre experience and for helping Babylon Village maintain its reputation as a “go-to” location for arts and entertainment.

Wayne & Judy