Hutton Centre
9 Hutton Center, Santa Ana, CA. 92707

Specifications

    Operators: Edwards
    Status: Demolished
    Opened: 6/10/88
    Closed: 2000
    Current Use: Commercial Park 
    Screens: 8
    Seating: Slope

Profile

The Hutton Centre 8 was opened in 1988 as somewhat of a modern luxury theatre. Featuring a large lobby (for the time) and more upscale features than Edwards’ other 80’s builds, the Hutton Centre was intended to stand out among Orange County theatres of the day.

Designed with a retro look, the Hutton 8 was an early attempt at combining classic era styling with modern technology. The theatre had two 500 seat auditoriums that were both THX certified and 70mm capable. Adding to the luxury concept, the large auditoriums had extra large screens that were covered with waterfall curtains. The six smaller auditoriums were a bit more typical of 80’s design, but featured equally plush seating and decor. A unique feature of the Hutton 8 was a balcony window which allowed patrons a view of the main projection booth. 

Unfortunately, by the mid 90s, the theatre’s Santa Ana location began to take a toll. Attracting an “undesirable” crowd and greater than normal wear on the facilities, the Hutton 8 quickly fell in to disrepair. By 2000, the once elegant theatre had become known as a place “not to go” and was closed around the time of Edwards’ bankruptcy. Shortly thereafter, the theatre was razed, along with most of the property, and construction was begun on an office complex.  

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