Subscribe for a FREE Daily Dose of greer's OC
FacebookTwitterRSSYouTubeFollow Me on Pinterest

McG Ushers in New Era for The Lido Theater with Restoration and Expanded Entertainment

Joseph McGinty Nichol, professionally known as McG, and his company River Jetty Restaurant Group have been chosen to operate The Lido Theater in Newport Beach. Restored to its original Art Deco design by the Fritz Duda Company, the theater will host a community open house on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the 25th annual Newport Beach Film Festival from Oct. 17 to 24.

The Lido Theater will present the Film Festival’s Closing Night film, A Real Pain, starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin, on Oct. 24 at 8:30 p.m.

Calling The Lido a “gift to the community,” McG plans to offer a variety of events, including live music, films, speakers, comedians, cinema and chorale groups. “I grew up in Newport Beach and have a lot of great memories of The Lido. It’s one of the coolest things about Newport and I love the idea of giving back to the community by bringing in eclectic new programming,” McG said. “I’m excited to help usher in a new era of entertainment at The Lido, especially now that it’s been restored and is more beautiful than ever.”

“We are fortunate to have McG and his team operating The Lido. He’s a lifelong Newporter who shares our vision for this special landmark,” said Duda. “Live performances will broaden the appeal of the theater, and with Lido House next door, we have created an entertainment and hospitality district that will serve Newport Beach and Orange County well.”

Opened in 1939, The Lido Theater was one of Orange County’s first movie houses, bringing the Golden Age of Hollywood to Newport Beach. Its recent renovation, delayed by the pandemic, included air conditioning and heating, a state-of-the-art digital projection system, new seating, lighting, and carpet, as well as a restored exterior color palette.

The theater's original features, including the box office, marquee, and Catalina-style tiles, have been meticulously restored. McG also plans to introduce 35mm film projectors for classic movies and occasional double features.

“My career started in Newport Beach as a music producer and video director, and while I now focus on producing movies, operating The Lido is the perfect intersection of my passions – movies, music, and hospitality,” said McG. “The Lido is now an elevated entertainment venue that will be the heartbeat of the community.”

“As a teenager, I saw Midnight Run at The Lido five times in one week, and it helped spark my love for entertainment. We want to provide something for everyone,” McG added.

Originally designed by Clifford A. Balch and opened in 1939, The Lido Theater remains a historic landmark. It was first opened with the movie Hollywood Cavalcade and has been lovingly maintained by the Fritz Duda Company since 1986.

Image Lido Theater Restoration Project by Bob Hodson

‹ First  < 6 7 8 9 10 >  Last ›


The Latest from greer's oc

Capture Timeless Family Moments at Brystan Studios!

Brystan Studios, my favorite professional photo studio that has been my go-to for years, is offering a limited-time in-studio Family Mini Session special! Book today for only $99 (a $595 value) with a minimum investment of $1,495.

This exclusive offer features…

Read More »

Experience Natural, Next-Level Skin Rejuvenation at ICONIC Wellness

A friend recommended ICONIC Wellness in Newport Beach when I mentioned I was looking for a treatment to help with fine lines and skin texture, but didn’t want a lot of pain or downtime. I’m so glad she did!…

Read More »

Ewan McGregor to Receive TV Performance of the Year Award at 2024 Newport Beach Film Festival

The 2024 Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) will honor Ewan McGregor with the TV Performance of the Year Award for his role in A Gentleman in Moscow. McGregor, who also serves as an executive producer, will receive the award after…

Read More »

Discover Doctor Clean: Your Trusted Cleaning Solution in Orange County

Finding a reliable cleaning service can be challenging, but Doctor Clean simplifies the process. Based in Orange County, Doctor Clean is known for its premium residential and commercial cleaning services. Whether it's a one-time deep clean or ongoing maintenance,…

Read More »

Follow Greer on Pinterest

Subscribe to Greer's OC

from the blog

More Daily Doses