

Nearly two years after its extensive restoration was announced, the historic Kings Theatre reopened yesterday, a few weeks ahead of its first concert with Diana Ross. Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen said, "Today marks a milestone for the Flatbush community."

Built in 1929, the Kings Theatre is the largest indoor theater in Brooklyn with over 3,000 seats, but it closed in 1977 and was acquired by the city in 1983. The $95 million work has made sure its grand flourishes—inspired by Versailles and the Paris Opera House, no less—are glowing, with original fixtures like chandeliers restored and new carpets, tapestries and curtains, based on archival photographs and remnants, designed.

The venue will offer "a wide spectrum of programming from local, national and international performing artists," with more than 200 performances annually. David Anderson—president for ACE Theatrical Group, the company that is operating the theater—said, "The Kings Theatre is now once again an integral part of this community, after being lost to the City for so long,. We are so proud to welcome New Yorkers back to the Kings and we thank the community for its incredible support of the revitalization project. It is our hope that everyone will join us as we celebrate the historic reopening and embark on the Theatre’s inaugural year of performances."

According to a press release, besides the February 3rd Diana Ross concert, there will be a free concert for community members on Tuesday, January 27th, and a free open house with tours of the restored structure will be held Saturday, February 7th. You can get more information here.