By 1971, Theatre 80 had transitioned to cinema. Their film programming began with screenings of movie musicals. According to Howard Otway, television airings of such movies, with their poor, truncated quality, detracted from the films. B presenting film musicals, he provided a way for the public to see the movies the way they were intended. Otway also became involved in film restoration, working with studios to discover lost movies and seeking to strike new prints from better elements in order to preserve and exhibit titles in a way that showcased their best quality.[7][8]
Prior to its current status as a cabaret-style theater, the building, which also houses the Museum of the American Gangster, was a nightclub during Prohibition.[9]
The Otways filed for bankruptcy on December 30, 2021, to prevent the sale of the building amid controversy with their mortgage lender.[10] In May 2022, the Otways were told they would have to vacate the theater by August.[11]
Following final efforts to save the theatre,[12] it was reported closed and the Otways were evicted in April 2023.[13] The building was sold at auction for $8.8 million in May.[14]
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