About The Spectrum

Located at 290 Delaware Ave. in Albany, NY, the Spectrum 8 Theatres is a locally owned, independent movie theater that has been in operation since 1983. We are committed to showing films that are provocative, entertaining and thought-provoking. By showcasing the best first-run independent, foreign and Hollywood films, the Spectrum has differentiated itself from the competition. We offer a state-of-the-art alternative to the mall movie experience. Dolby digital and stereo surround sound enhances enjoyment of our "spectrum" of film offerings. Off-street parking in either of our two lots means no hassles and no mall traffic. The Spectrum's Art Deco atmosphere, art gallery, and slide shows that feature the work of local artists make going to the movies a unique experience. Our snack bar offers a delicious selection of baked goods, coffees, teas and popcorn with real butter. Special events featuring conversations with independent filmmakers are a regular part of our programming. We are committed to keeping alive the idea of cinema as a vital art form and are proud to have created what is now considered to be the Capital District's primary resource for films that were formerly available to Metropolitan residents only.

History
In 1980, two couples who shared a love of film began careers in the movie business by buying and renovating a small, run-down, 183-seat theater in Rensselaer, NY. Renaming it the 3rd Street Theatre, we began showing "art films" in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. The programming was repertory in format. We built a loyal following showing such classics as The King of Hearts, My Dinner With Andre, John Sayles' The Return of the Secaucus Seven, and films by Truffaut, Kurosawa, Godard and Fassbinder. We hosted appearances by such luminaries as French filmmaker Agnes Varda, playwright Eugene Ionesco and comedian Paul Zaloom.

By 1983, we were outgrowing this venue and decided to expand our sights across the Hudson River into Albany. When we purchased the Delaware Theater in 1983, it was a single-screen, neighborhood, art-deco style theatre built in the 1940s. We have slowly expanded to our eight-screen incarnation, yet have not lost the personal touch which sets the Spectrum apart from the competition.

The Spectrum 8 Theatres installed 216 rooftop Photovoltaic Solar Panels. These panels will produce approximately 65 kilowatts per year of clean, renewable electricity - 1/3 of the Spectrum's power needs. The system went on line in late December 2011 and is expected to prevent 55,738 lbs. of carbon dioxide pollution, 119.58 lbs. of sulfur dioxide pollution and 62.58 lbs. of nitrous oxide pollution, according to NYSERDA estimates. The Spectrum is pleased to be part of the growing movement toward energy independence through the use of clean, renewable technology.

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