Historic Paris Theater Closes In Midtown Manhattan

MIDTOWN MANHATTAN, NY — One of New York City's last remaining single-screen movie theaters, the Paris Theater, closed this week months after rumors that it's time was coming to an end.

A sign with a farewell message was posted in the window of the 71-year-old theater Thursday.

"Unfortunately, our lease has ended and the Paris Theater is now closed. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all guests over the years. Thank you for your patronage, and we regret that we cannot continue to serve you," the theater's management wrote in the letter.

Many of New York City's arthouse theaters like the Paris, which screens many independent and limited-release films, have been closing in recent years due to the rise of streaming services. These services are producing more content, and consumers don't have to leave the couch to catch a new movie.

In its heyday, the Paris Theater was a favorite for movie premiers. The theater's West 58th Street and Fifth Avenue location made it a neighbor to glamorous New York City institutions such as the Plaza and Bergdorf Goodmans.

The Paris Theater was most recently owned and operated by City Cinemas, which runs a number of independent theaters in the city. City Cinemas suddenly closed its East 86th Street theater in May.

Future plans for the Paris Theater's site are unknown.