Greer's OC

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