The former Bethesda Theater on Wisconsin Avenue has been transformed into a modern-day jazz and supper club that will open to the public on March 1st. After receiving extensive upgrades, the 1938 theater is ready to welcome DC area residents as the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club.
Historic Preservation Meets Smart Renovation in Bethesda
The art-deco Bethesda Theater is on the National Historic Register. It’s also a landmark to longtime Bethesda and Chevy Chase residents, who have fond memories of watching films and Off-Broadway productions during its operation. Flood damage halted productions a few years ago, and after a brief stint as a rental venue, the theater fell into foreclosure.
It may have been a sense of nostalgia that influenced Rick Brown of B&B Realty Investments to purchase the theater in January 2012. He paid $2,895,000, and it was only the beginning. The building had extensive renovation before ending up in foreclosure, but to complete Brown’s vision, it would need further upgrades.
Today, the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club has a two-level, 1,800 square-foot kitchen and a 40-foot cocktail bar and lounge area. There are two tiered levels of table seating as well as theater seats, for a total patron capacity of 500. Special attention was paid to the decor and the acoustics, and no details have been overlooked.
Brown also put careful thought into the management of the new club, bringing in strong local experience to oversee the musical talent and the restaurant operations. Ralph Camilli is on board as Director of Operations, and Larry Brown is the Director of Entertainment. Executive Chef Scott Mullen brings his formidable culinary skills to the table.
A Complete Dining and Entertainment Experience in the DC Metro
With live performances by renown artists scheduled nearly each day of the week, and an in-house 18 piece jazz orchestra, the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club will become one of the premier entertainment destinations in Metro DC. Ticket prices will vary by performance, with national acts drawing the highest dollar, and the in-house band playing for a $10 cover charge. A wide range of musical styles will be offered, so no matter your music tastes, there will be an upcoming performance that interests you!
What about the menu? The best of American supper club fare is offered, from tender prime rib to honey grilled salmon to shrimp scampi pasta. Don’t miss the creme brulee cheesecake! An impressive wine list rounds out the offerings. You can view the menu here.
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The Estridge Group-Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
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