Who Established the White House Movie Theater?
In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the White House movie theater. He had two primary motivations: to entertain his guests and to keep up with the latest films. The theater was located in the newly-built East Wing of the Executive Mansion and was equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
The theater itself was designed to accommodate up to 200 people, and it featured a projection booth, a large movie screen, comfortable seating and air conditioning. The walls were also decorated with ornate wallpaper featuring images from some of Roosevelt’s favorite films. Some films that were shown at the White House included “Gone With The Wind,” “Casablanca” and “It’s A Wonderful Life.”
The theater proved to be a popular destination for high-profile guests during Roosevelt’s presidency. Many celebrities attended screenings at the White House, including Clark Gable, Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart and Marilyn Monroe. In addition to these star-studded events, the theater also hosted political events such as foreign dignitary receptions and press conferences.
In 1948, President Harry S Truman remodeled the theater after it had fallen into disrepair during World War II. Truman made sure that all of the modern technology remained intact while also adding new features such as curtains that could be opened or closed depending on what type of event was taking place in the room.
Since then, every president has enjoyed using the White House movie theater for private screenings or entertaining guests. It is currently used by President Barack Obama who regularly hosts screenings for his family as well as foreign dignitaries and other special guests.
Conclusion: The White House Movie Theater was established in 1942 by President Franklin D Roosevelt for both entertainment purposes for his guests as well as staying up to date with films at that time period. Since then every president has enjoyed using this theatre including President Barack Obama who regularly hosts screenings for his family as well as foreign dignitaries and other special guests.