Hollywood

Many of us drive right through the Northeast's Hollywood District via Sandy Boulevard en route to other climes. Hollywood is flanked by Grant Park, Rose City Park and I-84—but it’s more than a speedy diagonal route headed downtown or the Lloyd District. Next time your travels take you through Hollywood, stop and smell the roses. Better yet, make Hollywood a destination spot and spend some time exploring this oft-overlooked neighborhood.

Hollywood History
The Hollywood District was originally named Hollyrood (from the Scottish) and was part of the Rose City Park subdivision. It was renamed for the historic Hollywood Theatre which opened its doors in 1926 quickly becoming the central feature of the neighborhood. Since it’s been the focus of attention for more than three-quarters of a century, it’s only fair that we start our tour of the neighborhood here.

The Hollywood Theatre has certainly seen many changes and challenges. Nearby Grant Park neighbor Dori Jones remembers seeing Dr. Zhivago there before it was divided up into smaller theatres (the theatre was originally designed to seat 1500 in one large space). In 1997, Film Action Oregon (FAO) stepped up to the plate to purchase the theatre in order to preserve its rich cultural history and continue to provide neighbors with entertainment galore including independent films, performances, openings, fundraising events and parties. Related programs include Project Youth Doc, a documentary making summer camp for teens, and INSPIRE, a film production program for young women (part of FAO’s Women’s Film Initiative). Both programs reach out to local underserved populations, and have strong community partners who help subsidize tuition. FAO also sponsors the Austin Miller Scholarship Fund that helps kids find their creative voice though filmmaking. Be sure to catch a recent Oscar pick at the theatre in the coming weeks, attend the Oscar Shorts showcase, or even spend THE BIG NIGHT at the theatre partying along with (in spirit) the red carpet celebs glamming it up on the big screen. Read more...