The Nuart Theatre
Blackfoot, Bingham County
- Grants: 1994, 2023 – Historic Theatre Revitalization Subgrant Recipient* (Seating repair, replacement, and refurbishment)
Location: 195 N. Broadway, Blackfoot, Idaho 83221
The Nuart Theatre is a jewel in the historic downtown of Blackfoot, ID, and is described as “one of the best examples in Idaho of the modern style rendered in brick on a modest scale.” Built in 1929, the Nuart is distinct from many of Idaho’s other historic theaters in that it was built to accommodate talking pictures. As such, the owners secured the services of Walter DeMordaunt to design the building in a new style befitting of the new technology. Advertising at the time of its grand opening proclaimed it “was all the name implies.”
The exterior of the building is notable for its intricate brick patterns and terracotta ornamentation. The interior is similarly splendid, with green marble pillars, art deco lights on the walls and ceiling, and pastel plaster reliefs. J. Charles Schnorr of Pueblo, Colorado, who was responsible for the interior plaster work, was a former student of John Singer Sargent. Both the interior and exterior are notable for their exquisite craftsmanship and detailing.
The Nuart is now owned and operated by the Blackfoot Community Players, who put on regular performances throughout the year. It is also rented out and used for various community gatherings, such as city council meetings, school functions, and special events.
It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
*IHT’s Historic Theatre Revitalization Subgrant is made possible by the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant Program funded by the Historic Preservation Fund as administered by the National Park Service (NPS), Department of Interior.
