Organization

The Egyptian Theatre opened its doors for the first time in 1925. It was designed as a combination house for vaudeville and silent films and had over 1200 seats between the main floor and the balconies. One of the most impressive features of the theatre was, and still is, the Wurlitzer Orchestra. Throughout the decades, a number of updates were added to the theatre, including a sound system, more seats, a wider screen and a concession stand. Then, in 1976, bowing to economic pressures, the decision was made to "twin" the balconies, creating the three separate screens that the Egyptian has today. In 2005, the economic pressure became too great and the company that owned the Egyptian shut it down and put it up for sale. The theatre was closed after 80 years of business. Fortunately, the people and city of Coos Bay took action and the Coos Bay Urban Renewal Agency purchased the Egyptian in 2006. Now the theatre is operated by the Egyptian Theatre Preservation Association, a group of local volunteers and it shows classic movies and hosts a variety of live shows.