Kimo Theatre
Larger Map
Get Directions
423 Central Ave NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Phone: (505) 768-3522
Open to the public: Yes
https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/ki...
Lat: 35.0844
Lon: -106.6504
PANICd#: 2263
Publication date: 04/09/2026The KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico, opened its doors on September 19, 1927, during a time when movie palaces were becoming cultural landmarks across the United States.
Database Summary:
Demographic Rank: 0
History: 1
Stories: 1
Claims: 10
Evidence: 0
Resources: 4
Retrievals: 50
Vistor Rating: 0.0
Votes: 0
| |
Rate this Location <- Get Location Badge Code |
History
History information is some background and history about the location. This is meant to be a basic summary. Below the history records you will find sources in which you can click on to find out more information. There may be multiple history records per location.
The KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico, opened its doors on September 19, 1927, during a time when movie palaces were becoming cultural landmarks across the United States. Built as a grand entertainment venue, it quickly became a centerpiece of the city social and artistic life. The theater was commissioned by entrepreneur Oreste Bachechi, who envisioned a unique venue that reflected the spirit of the American Southwest.
Designed by the Boller Brothers architectural firm, the KiMo Theatre became one of the most iconic examples of Pueblo Deco architecture. This rare style blended traditional Pueblo design elements such as rounded edges and indigenous motifs with the bold geometric lines of Art Deco. The result was a visually striking structure that stood apart from other theaters of its time and celebrated Native American cultural influences.
In its early years, the theater hosted a mix of vaudeville performances, stage productions, and silent films, later transitioning into the era of talking pictures. It served as a gathering place for the community, offering entertainment and a sense of shared cultural identity. Over the decades, it welcomed notable performers and became deeply tied to Albuquerque's growing identity.
Like many historic theaters, the KiMo faced periods of decline. A devastating fire in the 1960s caused significant damage, and changing entertainment trends led to decreased attendance. By the 1970s, the building had fallen into disrepair and even faced demolition.
In 1977, the city of Albuquerque stepped in to preserve the structure, purchasing the theater and beginning restoration efforts. Since then, the KiMo Theatre has been revitalized and continues to operate as a cultural venue, hosting live performances, films, and community events while preserving its historic charm.
Added by: sdonley on 04/09/2026
DB#:891
Source(s):
Various Sources
Stories & Folklore
Stories & Folklore are just that. Stories and personal accounts that have been reported about the location and passed down from generation to generation. This section could also contain research notes as well.
The KiMo Theatre is widely known for its paranormal legends, the most famous involving the spirit of a young boy named Bobby Darnall. In 1951, a tragic explosion involving a water heater in the lobby resulted in his death. This event became the foundation for one of the most enduring ghost stories associated with the theater.
According to local lore, Bobby's spirit never left the building. Staff and performers have long believed that he remains present, often playing harmless tricks or interfering with productions. It is said that if offerings such as candy or donuts are not left for him, technical issues and mishaps may occur during performances.
Over time, this tradition of leaving gifts has become part of the theater culture. Cast and crew members reportedly place small tokens backstage to ensure smooth performances. While some dismiss the practice as superstition, others insist that unexplained events decrease when the ritual is followed.
Additional reports describe sightings of other apparitions, including a woman in vintage clothing wandering through the halls. Witnesses claim she appears briefly before vanishing, leaving behind a quiet and uneasy atmosphere. These encounters have added to the theater's reputation as one of the most haunted locations in Albuquerque.
Despite skepticism from some investigators who argue that certain stories have been exaggerated over time, the legends persist. Whether rooted in fact or folklore, the KiMo Theatre ghost stories continue to draw visitors, performers, and paranormal enthusiasts who are intrigued by its mysterious reputation.
Added by: sdonley on 04/09/2026 DB#: 1849
Source(s):
Various Sources
Paranormal Claims
Here are the paranormal claims for this location. These have been found through Internet research, reports from members, or reports from personal interviews. To add a claim, please contact PANICd.com, and we will review and add your information.
| Claim # | Added | Added By | Claim |
| 4887 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | The spirit of a young boy named Bobby is believed to haunt the theater. |
| 4888 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Offerings such as donuts or candy are left to prevent disturbances |
| 4889 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Performances experience technical issues if no offering is made |
| 4890 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Unexplained footsteps heard backstage and in hallways |
| 4891 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Objects moved or disturbed without explanation |
| 4892 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Cold spots reported throughout the building |
| 4893 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Apparition of a woman seen wandering the theatre interior |
| 4894 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Sudden equipment malfunctions during live performances |
| 4895 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Feelings of being watched reported by staff and performers |
| 4896 | 04/09/2026 | sdonley | Shadow figures occasionally seen near the stage and balcony |
Additional Resources
This is a collection of Internet resources for this location. This section will house links to other websites that contain information related to history, claims, investigations, or even the location's website.
| WikiPedia Entry
Added: 04/09/2026 By: sdonley |
Information about this location on WikiPedia |
| New Mexico: KiMo Theater (U.S. National Park Service)
Added: 04/09/2026 By: sdonley |
National Park Services information. |
| The Ghost of The Kimo Theatre: The Most Famous Pueblo Deco Picture Palace
Added: 04/09/2026 By: sdonley |
Article about the location. |
| Haunted KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico – Legends of America
Added: 04/09/2026 By: sdonley |
The KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico has been entertaining the public since 1927. Located on Route 66 and still open today, it is said to be haunted! |
Recently Added Locations
