Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of New York’s most historic—and sustainable—movie theaters with AYON Studio. Included in the 2012 Park Slope Historic District Extension, 188 Prospect Park West originally operated as The Sanders Theatre for 50 years (1928 – 1978) and as The Pavilion Theatre for another 20 (1996 – 2016). Then, in 2018, after completing an extensive $15-million, two-year rehabilitation, Nitehawk Cinema took over—with seven screens, 650 seats, in-theater dining, and two bars—continuing as Park Slope and South Slope’s go-to cinema.

Bringing this historic, early 20th-century theater into the 21st wasn’t simple. The old building was deteriorated and suffered from leaks. The new one had to ensure moviegoers’ comfort and reduce operating costs. Designing and directing construction projects completed earlier this year—including extensive exterior envelope repairs, roof and sidewalk replacements, and the installation of brand-new rooftop photovoltaics—these conservation experts also exposed many of the building’s original luxurious features in the 2018 renovation, including marble stairs once hidden beneath carpeting, original plasterwork details covered by layers of drywall and paint, and a full balcony.

Unanimously approved by both the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission and Brooklyn Community Board 6, the most recent fixtures—solar panels—help to ensure the continued viability of this beloved neighborhood fixture by offsetting high electrical energy use. Combined with the improved thermal performance of the walls and roof, this means less energy consumption and significantly lower long-term operation costs. A sustainability win!

While the Nitehawk is fully wheelchair accessible, the tour will be visiting back-of-house areas not usually open to the public. Guests should be comfortable with small, enclosed spaces and heights, as well as climbing ladders. Guests should dress accordingly, with full-length pants and well-soled, closed-toe, flat shoes or boots. Please refer to additional accessibility policies here: https://www.nitehawkcinema.com/prospectpark/policies-2/