The Majestic Bay Theatre continues the legacy of motion picture exhibition in Ballard with a new building that recalls the grace of the past with the innovations and luxuries modern audiences expect.

   Elltaes Theatres LLC originally purchased the shuttered Bay Theatre property in March 1998 with intention of a modest remodeling. But the modern luxuries desired by Chairman Kenny Alhadeff overburdened the eight-decade-old wooden structure and its crowded aisles and narrow bathrooms. A new building was constructed on the site.

    Graceful lines of traditional theatre architecture combine with fresh clean efficiency to define the Majestic Bay. A classic yet modern marquee invites patrons into the theatres with a signature neon treatment on the third-floor windows facing Market Street. The old-style center box office provides computerized tickets with advance sales, credit card purchases, rechargeable gift cards and convenient internet sales.

    An elegant interior design by co-owner Marleen Magnoni Alhadeff recalls the Northwest’s nautical-themed theatres, such as the John Danz, Admiral and Neptune. Rich mahogany wainscoting and dark granite counters are two interior themes.

    The triplex features a main auditorium on the Street Level with stadium seating, providing an unobstructed view of the wall-to-wall screen. Comfortable high-back chairs with armrest cup holders complement the movie-going experience. Dolby Digital Surround-EX provides crystal-clear sound effects and dialogue. A waterfall curtain rises at the start of each presentation. The favorite concession items are available, including freshly popped popcorn with real butter. Handcrafted fused-glass fixtures by a local artisan accent the lower lobby.

    Upstairs, the two smaller theatres have the same luxurious amenities. Plush high back chairs with cup holder armrest and Dolby Digital Sound grace both of the upper auditoriums. An elevator takes patrons to the upper floors. A spacious lobby and convenient concession stand complete the upper floor. With a nod to the past, the neon “Bay” letters from the old marquee were refurbished and incorporated into addition signs for the side and rear of the new building.

    The Majestic Bay can serve your individual, company or organization needs with meeting facilities or hosting other special events, such as private parties, birthdays or corporate team-building events. Please email us for more information on how we can serve you.

    As we approach our first decade of serving more than 1 million patrons, the challenges faced by Elttaes Theatres President Aaron Alhadeff and General Manager Brent Siewert remain the same as detailed by Kenny Alhadeff on the first day of operation: “Our intention is that the Majestic Bay is an intimate, modern theatre with a high emphasis on customer service. I want people to leave there and go, ‘Wow!’”