Theater was really awesome, parking could be tricky possibly, but was easy enough to find on a Saturday evening for a show. The only reason I gave 4 stars was two things: women's bathroom was COMPLETELY out of hand soap at about 7 o'clock in the evening. I understand these places may be understaffed, the good thing was as soon as I said something it seems like they went in and remedied the situation. BUT, and when I say but, it's a BIG BUT, once the lobby started to fill with people, IT GOT HOT. SO, SO HOT. Everybody was sweating and complaining. I heard one woman say she wasn't sure how much more she could take. It was bad, really really bad. Other than that, I'd definitely be willing to come back for a show at this theater! ....especially in the winter. read more

20th Century Theater - Drinks for the Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy event - Cinema Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

I remember seeing movies in this building as a kid, so it's really awesome to see it continuing to provide an entertainment venue. We attended a concert of several bluegrass bands headlined by Rumpke Mountain Boys on New Year's Eve 2019. On this particular night, the crowd was the perfect size. Great vibe down on the floor in front of the stage, but enough room to move around on the second tier for those that prefer a little more elbow room. The bar service was prompt, prices seem fair and the variety of beer selections is decent for a venue that isn't open every night (though no beers on tap, which is understandable for an event venue I suppose). The building is in pretty good shape, and really shows off the classic architecture well. It seemed to me like the stage area has been enhanced recently, though I couldn't be sure. This is a great neighborhood venue for live music and events. Check it out! read more

20th Century Theater - Rumpke Mountain Boys 12/31/19 - Cinema Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

The perfect wedding reception venue in all aspects. Gorgeous decor and arrangement. Plenty of room on the dance floor. read more

So far I've only came here for concerts/shows and all were great experience. They also have Weddings here which someday I would like to see. Building is very historical and great addition to the oakley area. My only con is the parking area. Would be nice to have their own private lot. read more

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I definitely hope to return here as my first visit was excellent. Really like the old school vibe. Lots of seating and good sound as well.

Small venue but doesn't feel cramped. Seating is slightly tiered so sight lines aren't bad and the sound quality was good (though it wasn't a musical show so your mileage may vary). Saw the CUSS show here in late June. Bar has a standard assortment of drinks, though staff could have done a better job of taking orders or directing the amorphous blob of patrons to the other end/bartenders rather than congregating at one corner. The bathroom was clean. No parking at the theater but plenty in the area if you arrive with time to circle for a bit. read more

I recently second shot a wedding here and found it to be a great venue the wedding party and provided great photographic opportunities. The grassy area directly across the street is a great place for group shots with the marquee in the background. You can also replicate the Beatles iconic street crossing by having the people do the same. The balcony area might provide some unique photos although be careful not to shoot too wide and include any unnecessary stuff like the scaffolding. The parking is somewhat limited so if you have lots of gear, plan to get there early and park in the small connected lot. Do not move your car. hopefully some nimrod will not park in such a way that you can't leave the lot at the end of the night. There area few side streets that allow for free parking if you are able to walk a bit. Lighting in the upstairs area is very dim, so you'll need to use flash or a very fast lens. The staff were very friendly and quick to help if I needed anything. One of the other photographers used wireless flashes on top of the speakers to light the dancefloor and the shots came out awesome. You'll enjoy it here. read more

20th Century Theatre is a violent shove back into the hey-day of movie-going, with all the marquees and deco-era architecture you can handle! Last night was my first ever attendance to a "Watch This" event (www.watchthisblog.com), my first time to the 20th Century Theatre, and my first time ever in Oakley. The movie of the night was "ET: The Extraterrestrial" and, as if seeing a movie for the first time in 20 years wasn't exciting enough, it was free! Parking for the theatre is very scarce: prepare to leave your car in a very run-down and small lot adjacent to the building (which is where I parked) or on one of the neighboring streets. When walking I found it very refreshing to see old-style movie poster frames, large brass fixtures, and a small classic soda and popcorn concession area. The popcorn was only $1 and was about as big as a $4 bag of the same thing from a mega-theater. Huge benefit: we could bring our own food, drink, and alcoholic beverages. The seating inside is uncomfortable, to say the least, and the sound system is poor. However, I enjoyed the movie, enjoyed my company, and enjoyed how inexpensive it was. It seems it is more of a concert, guest speaker, and private event venue now. The fact they rent the place out for weddings and special events (such as the one I attended) is really awesome. The reason why I won't give it more than 3 stars is because I really have no use for this place; it has such a specific niche! I doubt I'll seek it out if I need a venue for an event, and the only time I'll come back to the theatre is for the next Watch This event. *shrug* read more

20th Century Theater - Cinema Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Love this venue for concerts. Great stage and acoustics. Every seat is a great view and it's easy to get around to bar or bathroom. When it's crowded there may be a wait but staff is courteous and quick to help. More neighborhoods need such a venue for shows and movies. Definitely feels like a small town, good ol' days location. read more

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The owner does everything he can to support our great Republic peacefully with love. Let's support this great little gem and bring it back some luster! They are holding the line in our community- he has an open bar and a wooden dance floor- offers free movies- welcome to all! read more

We had our wedding reception here, and we couldn't have asked for anything more. The staff was awesome to work with, the look and feel of the theatre was a mixture of retro and elegant, the food was really good. We were really happy with it all. I've seen a number of concerts here as well, and I've never had a bad experience. In fact, if a concert is playing there, I'm more likely to go see it! 20th Century Theatre is an asset to Cincinnati. read more

20Th Century Theater is a great all around venue in the heart of Oakley. I've attended concerts, wedding receptions, non-profit events, corporate receptions and this week an Oakley Community Development meeting at the theater. You can't ask for a more convenient, easily accessible venue for an event than the 20th Century Theater in Cincinnati. read more

My favorite smid size venue for concerts in Cincy. Been to a few shows here, and the sound has always been very very good. Bartenders and staff are great too, chill and not thinking they're too cool. Theatre situated in neighborhood with easy parking and wide sidewalks. Clean too! My advice is to check it out when a band's in town that half way interests you. read more

Last year I had the opportunity to visit The 20th Century Theatre for my best friends wedding. When he told me about the venue, I asked myself "why would you have a wedding in a theatre?". Come wedding day, I arrived to see "Our love story begins, starring Natalee and Derek" on the marquee. That's a neat touch, and it's very cool. I stepped inside, and it was like I stepped back into the 1940's. The inside of the facility is beautiful. They definitely did a good job of planning the wedding. Way to go! From the wedding to the reception, this place was beautiful and the 20th Century staff did a fantastic job as I celebrated the marriage of my best friend. I'll have to check it out sometime for a concert but if you're getting married- definitely check this place out. It's neat. read more

Grand ole theatre with a lot of history. We had a nice work event here where we rolled out the red carpet and had a fun day. read more

20th Century Theater - P&G Chemicals Annual Deployment ~ Starring the 50 Shades of Tom Cruise - Cinema Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

When you walk up to the 20th Century Theatre, you feel as if you are walking back in time. It has an incredible art deco exterior and I almost expected to see a young couple dressed in clothing from times before I was even thought of, standing romantically close under those brilliant lights. I had to shake my head to snap out of it before I entered the venue, and was equally impressed by the interior of this place. A friend threw a benefit concert here and we were lucky enough to spend many hours wandering around in the building as we set up for the event. I wanted to look around to see if the outside matched the inside and it blew me away. The floor is the same concrete with a polished look to keep it fresh. The bathrooms looked like they were painted to match the whimsical style of the Theatre, a grand set of curvy stairs & the Theatre itself.. BEAUTIFUL. I'd seen it set up for a wedding prior to this event and it took my breath away. This alone would have made for a 5 star review to me.. but the main reason is for the 5 stars was the courtesy of this location. My friend needed a venue to do her benefit and 20th Century accepted without so much as blinking an eye. They provided us with bartenders and a sound guy for the bands and everything. It was an amazing event and we couldn't have done it without the awesome support from the Theatre.. 10 Stars if it were possible. Easily. read more

I've shot several weddings at 20th Century Theatre - we love this venue! It's got a lot of cool things about it. Let's start with the pluses: 1. Unusual venue - it's not your typical rental or banquet hall. There's history and cool details that many other venues don't have. 2. Photo Opps - hey, I'm a wedding photographer, so I am clearly looking for places to do great photos. 20th Century has them! Even the women's restroom has the multi-color, swirly wall. I love doing photos from the balcony with the twinkly lights in the background. There are photos in front, on the stairs, upstairs with the exposed brick. Again, many venues don't have so many cool spots onsite. 3. You're the one and only. I really like venues that only allow one event at a time. So many places have several weddings/events going on, and you have people running around everyone, and the music from the DJ next door is drowning you out. At 20th Century, it's you and only you. 4. Great staff, good food. At one wedding, they even had the popcorn maker out - cute touch, since it was a theater. Staff has always been super helpful to me - finding us tables for camera gear or even setting a little table for us to grab a quick snack. They do a great job of switching the venue from ceremony to reception, too, while your guests enjoy a cocktail hour in the lobby. 5. Twinkly lights - love the twinkly lights and paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling. They really add to the magic of the place. 6. Wedding ceremony/reception in one location - big plus! 7. Did I mention the twinkly lights? Overall, I like the lighting - creates a great mood. 8. Great location - you're really close to Ault Park, in case you want to sneak out for some outdoor photos. Plus, they have the little park across the street. 9. Marquee - come on, how many venues offer your name in lights??? Okay, so that's some of the good - but there's a tiny bad, too.... 1. Parking. Nothing really onsite, but that's what valets are for, right? 2. Construction - this would have been a complaint, but I think it's pretty much done. 3. It's dark - but hey, this is really only a problem for your photographer! And if they have the right gear and know what they're doing, then it isn't really a problem at all. It's an opportunity to get some cool photos. And that's about it - as you can see, there are A LOT of huge pluses to the venue and very little negative. In summary, I love this venue and recommend it to anyone in search of a cool, unique, different place for your wedding ceremony/reception or other event. read more

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I've lived down the street from 20th Century for almost a year now so shame on me for taking so long to go to an event here. I got my chance to check it our recently when Husband and I caught Fitz and the Tantrums. This is a great space and I now completely get why so many couples hold their wedding receptions here. The space is beautiful and well kept. I appreciated the string lighting and paper lanterns (although when someone pulled out a lighter during a slow song at the concert - I will admit I got a little jumpy when they got a little close to said paper lanterns.) The beer list is limited, but there are some good choices for an event space. The bar seems pretty well appointed for a variety of cocktails so I'm sure that most of the basics would be available. read more

A very cool atmosphere. Like a real authentic movie experience. I would expect any kind of gathering to work here. Would love to have a wedding reception here. The theater space itself is quite spacious, which helps with not being cramped in. I also love the tables and chairs instead of traditional movie seating. The bathrooms are hard to find unless you go a couple times. I had to wander around like a fool (nothing new) the first couple times I was there. read more

A really nice mid-sized venue for seeing a concert. Everyone that works here was really nice, too, from the will call people to the security to the bartender- that was a nice surprise! I love the lights and different levels of areas to sit/stand/dance. One star is off because as far as I know, there isn't any designated parking for the venue. I can imagine that might be annoying for a wedding... read more

Went here for the first time when fabulous NOLA funk band Galactic came into town. I hadn't been to the 20th Century Theater before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. There were a handful of seats, but for the most part, it was standing room only. Not many bathroom stalls, but I didn't have to wait in line, and they were clean. It's not a particularly large venue, so we had pretty good sightlines even though we were in the back. It's not a super fancy venue, but you gotta love that old school retro sign out front! read more

There was a time when architects looked to the future without disdaining the past. This theater was built then. There was a time when Cincinnati leaders ripped out every built of pre-1960 architecture and plugged into it's place some anti-human piece of 70s garbage. This theater avoided that. It's a little past it's prime and not perfectly taken care of but a slightly aged, worn out classic beauty is better than the new an ugly - like Susan Sarandon. I've been to the 20th Century twice - once for an extraordinarily loud funk concert and last night for a movie. Venue was perfect for each but would also be great for a wedding or corporate party. I checked out the rentals and they are pretty cheap. Need a space, give it a try. read more

I attended the 20th Century for the World Premiere of the movie "75." This is a great venue for special events. The bar keeps the drinks flowing. The theatre is pleasantly cool and feels great on a warm night. The old fashioned marquee is fantastic. Also the lights on ceiling in the theatre are so beautiful. This is a great venue for movie events and concerts.#20thcentury#cincinnati read more

20th Century Theater - The Marquee at the 20th Century! - Cinema Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

I got married here on August 14, 2021. Everything was great in the beginning. Mark (the owner) helped us plan everything,etc. the day of our wedding guests waited forever in line for alcohol because one bartender left stoned(per Mark) and another just left. When we tried to find mark he was nowhere to be seen which is very unprofessional. I guess he doesn't care as he is selling the business in the end of December. Food was okay. DJ played the wrong first dance song which honestly ruined a big part of my night. Now when we look back to our wedding night we will remember how the Dj played the wrong song... maybe he was drunk or stoned as well?? I will give it to 20th century the decorations were beautiful but that's about all really read more

When to a wedding last week. Bar area was small and loud. Appetizers we below average. Very dark and the MC was a little over the top. Place looked like the syndicate in Newport. Food was very bland and beef was from Kentucky ( !!!!). Very average and food pushed it one star. read more

Wow, 20th Century ended up being the perfect wedding venue for us! Lindsey was wonderful to work with. She answered all of my emails promptly and was so helpful. The pricing was incredibly reasonable, and there were no surprise charges. I love that the 20th offers so many different services - they provided dinner, bar, DJ during both the ceremony and reception, valet parking, and lighting. I highly recommend the string Vincent lights, they really looked amazing against the brick! Mark (the DJ) was just fantastic. He kept the energy up the whole night! All of the event staff were so kind and gracious throughout the day. We got so many compliments on the food too, and we went with the most basic menu! You will NOT be disappointed if you decide to get married at the 20th. read more

Built in 1941, the classic era of movies, the 20th Century once showed films with all the most popular stars. Since then, it has evolved into a versatile venue which celebrates weddings, award ceremonies, and concerts. I've attended all three kinds of functions. The space inside the ballroom transforms for the event, and has been equally impressive for each of the three engagements listed above. I'm a big fan of the icicle lighting that hangs from the framework. The outside still boasts of the original Art Deco architecture, a sight to behold. Upstairs, and usually off limits unless it's a private party, is a vintage lounge complete with pool table and jukebox. On each occasion, the staff has been very accommodating. The bartenders are quick and amiable and the catering has been mouthwatering. I highly recommend getting the vegetarian lasagna. If you're looking for an affordable, unique spot to hold a wedding, awards night, concert, or any other type of function, look no further than 20th Century. read more

So far I have been to this theater for a movie, a sit-down classical concert (by the amazing Concert:Nova, go check them out!) and a couple of rock shows. It is a pretty cool space, but it seems a little unsure of what to do with itself. There is a bar in the lobby, which is nice, but inside there are two levels, and then a raised stage (not counting the balcony, which I haven't seen open). The chairs, when they have them, are movable chairs, and there are xmas-type lights hanging from some stuff suspended from the ceiling. The place sounds good, which is a plus for concerts, and if you are standing in the part closer to the stage it is pretty easy to get a good view. I want to give it 5 stars because it is historic and pretty, but I just don't love it as much as I want to. I would definitely come back, though. read more

So we just had our daughters wedding reception here Aug 2021. Our experience was this; After months of planning and preparing what was delivered was not what we expected. We had 200 guests many who left early because the venue was too uncomfortably warm. The outside the day of wedding was 81 degrees. We bought the highest packages. The food was ok maybe like $12/plate quality vs $30 we were charged. We started w 3 bartenders however 1 was too stoned to work and I believe another one must've walked out? People waited 20-30 mins for a drink for which we paid top shelf @ $23/person. Bar was poorly stocked and they couldn't even get a simple bourbon widely available at The Party Source. So who do you turn to? Mark the owner?Nowhere to be found. He was like Clint Eastwood in High Plains Drifter. He abandoned us that night. Easy to spot when he was there. The one in old t-shirt and jeans. His solution was to not charge us for the extra drinks after 4 hours which were next to none due to low staffing and people leaving fed up. This place was the perfect place for us to be embarrassed in front of our family and friends. For those who stayed. DJ got the bride and grooms first dance wrong "first time it happened to me in 20 years". I gave 2 stars because they at least had the doors unlocked and the names on the marquee. My advice; Buyer beware. read more

This used to be a nice venue for smaller acts, but my recent experience with them caused me to vow to never return again. It's such a shame to see this place fall so far. #sad read more

Decent place to have an event, party, or meeting. It still has some charm from a day or era gone by. For those movie buffs (like me), it leaves a lot for the imagination to go wild. Big enough stage area, not for a full musical, a couple levels of seating, and a nice lobby area. read more

It's an interesting old building and a great event space. Came here to see a showing of "The Man Who Ate New Orleans". Parking is available just off Oakley Square on the side streets. Also, it's right across the street from Dewey's. Dewey's and an independent film showing at the Century Theater makes for a great date night. read more

We my Daughter's wedding there this weekend and I have to say it was the best wedding ever. Mark and the staff took care of our every need. Our guests were blown away by the theater and its charm. The food was very good and the price was a excellent value! We did not consider any other venue one we saw the place. read more

An iconic Cincinnati spot, and a great part of Oakley. They host a lot of great events and have decent, affordable food service.

this spot is awesome. i have been herefor all kinds of events - most recently a wedding. it was very cool. concerts? awesome venue. i've seen it all here from del mccoury to mike gordon to graham weber. events? super cool. ymca character awards done well. weddings? the kitchen at 20thC is the tops. all around gem in the city. read more

I don't think I've been to a show here that didn't sound amazing, their crew here is great, and the feel here is intimate, even though a few hundred people can fit in here, if there is a band you're even remotely interested in seeing is playing here, don't miss out on that chance. read more

I have been here for concerts and weddings. The building itself is quite cute and was being updated while the Oakley square renovations were happening. As a concert venue, I really enjoy it because they keep some of the table and chairs up so (as someone who always comes early) I can get a drink and sit and then watch the concert. My first concert here was a Matt Pond PA concert back in the day, and I loved it there - thought their music was a perfect sound for the place. As a wedding venue, I'm not sure. I did photography for a wedding here and considered this for my own wedding. It is pretty - you don't have to do a lot of decor because of what they have done - but this place will almost dictate your wedding design and decor because of that. They also require you to use their catering service, which had too many things my husband was allergic to to consider. As a photographer, I had some problems. There is a great balcony to take photos off of, although it is crowded with old stuff and what seems to be trash. During the ceremony, I took photos of the bride going down the aisle, then ran up to do my job taking photos from above, and the door is closed. I find someone who works there who tells me he can't open it and the owner is at their bar across the street. The ceremony lasted like 5 minutes maybe so I missed half of it and didn't even get up in the balcony. I felt AWFUL. It is also really dark for photography - but the new Oakley square and under the marquee is great for photos. It was pretty for a wedding and if you are on a budget their Friday night deal is great. read more

This place is incredible--how have I not reviewed it yet???! We saw Fitz & the Tantrums here back in the spring, and it was awesome. It's such a beautiful theater, and in a perfect location! If the weather's nice, you can take a nice stroll before or after the show...eat at Dewey's (if you know what's good for you...but that's another review)...stop in Aglamesis Bros for some ice cream...I love this neighborhood. Back to the venue...great place for a show. Lots of standing room, but it's not huge enough that it looses the intimate feel. Even if you're in the back of the room, you don't feel really far away from the stage. Got a few drinks at the bar...stuck with my usual amaretto sour and it was good. I can't remember if it was decently priced...husband bought. Either way, I hope I have the chance to see another show (or seven!) here sometime...it's such a great place. :) read more

This is a fabulous place to see a live show; I saw Devil Makes Three recently (check them out!). There's a great big standing area in front of the stage and ample tables and chairs farther back. The sound is great inside this place for live music. Personally the historical aspect of the theater and the great big lighted sign out front were great touches that made the experience even better. The bartender made the drinks stiff which is always appreciated. On an odd note, I liked the bathroom here because it was really big; two bathrooms connected together in case it gets really packed. read more

I've been here twice- both for concerts and I must say I love the place! It's clean and classy. It'd be a wonderful place for a wedding!!