The historic Lido Theater in Newport Beach has been honored with a 2026 Preservation Award from the Art Deco Society of California following its extensive multi-million-dollar restoration. The theater was one of only two restored buildings in California to receive the prestigious recognition this year.
The annual Art Deco Preservation Awards celebrate efforts to preserve California’s Art Deco architecture, art and culture. The award was presented to project designer Margee Drews and project manager John Loper on behalf of owner Fritz Duda Company during the 41st Annual Art Deco Preservation Ball at The Hibernia in San Francisco.
Originally opened in 1939, the single-screen Lido Theater was designed by noted architect Clifford A. Balch, known for his Art Deco movie houses. The theater was built by The Griffith Company, a firm that played a major role in the development of Newport Beach.
Fritz Duda Company purchased the landmark theater in 1986 and completed a five-year restoration project that was unveiled in October 2024.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized for the preservation and meticulous restoration of the Lido Theater,” owner Fritz Duda said. “As one of the most notable theaters in Southern California, The Lido and its Art Deco design allow guests to step back in time to the Golden Age of Hollywood.”
The restoration included new seating, lighting, carpeting and an expanded stage framed by a red velvet waterfall curtain. The original stucco color was also uncovered and restored on the exterior.
Historic elements throughout the theater were carefully preserved, including the original box office, lobby, concession stand, movie poster cases, marquee and neon lighting. The iconic Art Deco neon starburst at the entrance was also restored.
Inside, mahogany doors and decorative woodwork were refinished, while brass and copper details were added back into the design. Catalina-style tile in the lobby and restrooms was restored, along with the original terrazzo entry.
One of the theater’s most distinctive features, the pink sitting parlor in the women’s restroom, was also restored. The space was originally requested by Oscar-winning actress Bette Davis, who once lived nearby.
The 520-seat auditorium was refreshed as well, including its underwater-themed murals that glow as the lights dim. The theater’s original balcony remains intact, a feature rarely seen in modern cinemas.
When the restored Lido Theater reopened, Newport Beach native and producer Joseph “McG” Nichol was announced as the new operator through River Jetty Restaurant Group. The venue now hosts films, live entertainment, corporate events and private parties.
The Lido Theater is located in Via Lido Plaza at 3459 Via Lido in Newport Beach, near the entrance of the famed Balboa Peninsula. For more information or a schedule of upcoming movies and live events, visit thelidotheater.com.
