Dryden Theatre

Address:	900 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, USA
Phone:	+1 585-271-3361
Site:	eastman.org
Rating:	4.8

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 20

Paul Cicotta

The Dryden Theatre is truly a classic here in Rochester. Attached to the Eastman House, it is a host to a variety of films. A couple of years ago they over-hauled the Theatre, putting in millions of dollars in renovations. It is home to some of the biggest events of the year like the International Film Festival, and the Fast Forward Festival. The Dryden not only gives you a chance to view films, but also hear live commentary from the producers of that film. Dryden holds many provocative film discussions which includes active participation from the entire audience. The one HUGE downside of the Dryden Theatre is that they do not allow you to bring any drinks or beverages into the Theatre. This is difficult when your watching a movie and want to nibble on a snacky yum yum. I went to the Technicolor Event for the Wizard of Oz that has been recently held there. I have never actually seen The Wizard of Oz movie as a whole, so the Dryden Theatre was a nice classic fit for my first time. Technicolor is when you get to see the film in its original 3 colored format. That is something that has been rare to experience in the future, as they stopped producing Technicolor Films. You always take a breath of fresh air as the giant golden theatre curtain rises to begin the current film. The Wizard of Oz in Technicolor looked amazing as the flying monkeys were coming at me from the giant theatre screen! You can view more of the Technicolor Wizard of Oz exhibit at the Eastman House. At this exhibit you were learn that it was over 100 degrees filming the Wizard of Oz in Technicolor, and many actors got heat exhaustion from the BRIGHT film lights. I bet you that was the real reason why that wicked witch melted. Overall: Classically Modern, The Golden Curtain, No Food or Drinks, Huge Theater Screen, Stadium Styled Seating, Film Festivals. and those Ruby Slippers....I will be back.

David Gonzales

I went to the Dryden Theater for the "fast forward film festival". It is a beautiful theater attached to the George Eastman house and unlike other theaters no food or beverages are allowed inside. There is a stage next to the screen where probably directors or producers can make a speech or in the case of "fast forward film festival" where the winners of the festival are announced. I had not been to this theater prior to the renovation and cannot comment on the quality or the necessity of the renovation, but it sure is a beautiful setting. I am all for supporting anything local and would love to go back to watch movies.

Nikolai Lyalʹka

If someone is new to the area and they ask for a great local place to check out, I always recommend them to the Dryden Theatre as one of the many choices to see. Even before the recent renovations to the theater (which theyve done a fantastic job in modernizing while still keeping the place classy), nothing beats seeing an old film on the big screen. And what they bring to the local indie film scene is great with the festivals they service throughout the year. Make sure you plan ahead from the monthly schedule thats available on their website and check out this Rochester staple!

Christopher Carlsson

One of the few places in the world that can show nitrate films, virtually every other type of projector known , and a film collection second to none ! Martin Scorsese and many others have donated their collections to this theater. One of the most outstanding collections of films and equipment in the world, backstopped by an outstanding staff of curators.

Ann Ghyzel

Usually a great place, however I will not believe their website for movie times! We checked their website multiple times for the movie Henry V & the website said 8 pm but it was wrong. We showed up at 8 pm with other people and found out it was wrong! Always call for movie times! Such a disappointment for our guests.

Dave Feistel-Minchella

This is one of the best places to view a movie in Rochester. Clean, modern facility. They introduce the movie with a brief synapses before each showing. After the movie, stop at the cafe for dessert.

Odd1 1n

This is a film nerd sanctuary. The updated facility makes for a cleaner, more comfortable theater. The sound is superb, great film selection and the panels arent like anywhere else.

Karl Smith

A Rochester secret that I drag all my friends from out of town to. Excellent curators and film selection. The place has personality and exudes an aura of good taste.

Matthew Kampschmidt

One of the most versatile theaters left in America in terms of film and digital formats. Excellent events showing a wide variety of American and foreign cinema.

Carlos A Gomez A

Dryden is a must see destination for film lovers. * Film screenings that will defy your imagination and bring joy to cinematography lovers the world over. *

Vivek Narayanan

Best sound system in any theatre of Rochester and perfect acoustics. Concert style "bay" seating in balcony.

Andrew Pschirrer

Nostalgic, timeless films in a theater full (or not so full) of fellow fans of classic cinema ;-)

Jason Richardson

If I want to see the original Ghostbusters on the big screen, this is where I go.

kyle shay

Frequent visitor. Love seeing the upcoming selection. Great curation.

Jonathan Lewit

Love the Dryden. Great theater with tons of Rochester history.

Luis Ortiz

Wonderful theater playing the best of the best