Dazzling Milestone: The Marvelous St. Helena’s Cameo Theater Celebrates Its 110th Birthday Today!
Anne Ward Ernst Takes the Stage with an Introduction by Tim Carl
Unleashing Bold Innovation: Defying Conventions Through Unnecessary Introductions
By Tim Carl
We are thrilled to announce the addition of Anne Ward Ernst, the newest contributor to Napa Valley Features. With her impressive background as a writer, columnist and former editor of the Calistogan from 2013 to 2018, she brings a wealth of local expertise, wit and wisdom to our team. Ernst is one of the region's most knowledgeable voices, and we look forward to her future contributions, eager to delve into her musings and perspectives. Today she shares her insights on the iconic Cameo Theater in St. Helena.
Before we dive into Anne’s piece, however, a bit about my own history with the Cameo, which holds a special place in my heart. When I was a young resident of St. Helena, this theater became my first cinematic crush. Within its velvety darkness I found inspiration to become a storyteller while watching iconic films such as "Jaws" (1975), "Rocky Horror Picture Show" (1976), "Star Wars" (1977) and "Rock and Roll High School" (1979). This is also where I braved the scares of "Halloween" (1978) and "The Shining" (1980). Beyond its role as a film haven, the Cameo has served as a gathering place for the community that has fostered learning, sharing and engagement over the years.
Founded in 1913, the Cameo Cinema proudly holds the distinction of being California's oldest continuously operating single-screen movie theater. This remarkable feat is a testament to dedicated stewards, including its current proprietor, Cathy Buck.
The movie-theater industry was a novelty in the early 20th century. In 1888, French inventor and filmmaker Louis Le Prince created the first recognized motion picture titled "Roundhay Garden Scene." California's first movie theater opened in San Francisco in 1896. It was known as the "Nickelodeon," and here audiences could view silent "moving pictures" throughout the day for a nickel. By 1912, Tally's Electric Theater in Los Angeles emerged as one of the first recognizable movie theaters. Just a year later, what would become called the Cameo first opened its doors in the small farming town of St. Helena.
During this transformative era, the movie industry rapidly evolved from a curiosity to a thriving global force, with California at its epicenter. In 1913, Universal Pictures rose as a major player in the motion-picture industry, releasing "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," one of the world's first horror films. This 26-minute adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's celebrated novel shocked audiences and critics alike, showcasing the transformation from good to evil onscreen.
Today the Cameo Theater stands as a testament to the enduring magic of cinema that captivates audiences and preserves the rich history of film and powerful storytelling, all the while building strong connections and community.
The Cameo Turns 110!
By Anne Ward Ernst
An old gal on Main Street in St. Helena is turning 110. She’s lively, entertaining and oftentimes thought-provoking. She’s the Cameo Cinema, and today is her birthday.
