History behind the name.

Nickelodeon History in Denver

• With in ten years of the creation of filmmaking, such a high demand existed for the beautiful medium that small theaters, otherwise known as Nickelodeons, started popping up all over the states. Nickelodeons, so labeled because it cost just a nickel per film program, were primarily packed with immigrant workers. The viewing experience differed greatly from what we’re used to today. Each film program lasted anywhere from about ten to sixty minutes and most programs were accompanied by piano, phonograph, or a lecturer who would explain components of the films to the audience. Due to labor unions fighting for and winning shorter workweeks for employees, and because going to watch films had become so affordable to the working class because of nickelodeons, attendance rose greatly between 1905 and 1907. By 1908, Nickelodeons were the main form of film exhibition.

• From the popularity of films, to their actual structure, the Nickelodeon had a great impact. Interestingly, the Nickelodeon also had a great impact on Denver. Near the peak of the “Nickelodeon Boom” Denver had more theaters per capita than any other city in the nation, thus dawning the name the Nickel City.

• As a young organization attempting to make a positive change, we want to honor Colorado’s past ties with the film industry while laying a solid foundation from which the industry can keep on growing in the future, right here in Colorado!!!!!