Haunted KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Haunted KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico, stands as a testament to a bygone era of cinematic grandeur and theatrical performance. More than just a historical landmark, it is a place where echoes of the past resonate with the present, a building imbued with the stories of dreams realized, tragedies endured, and the lingering presence of spectral inhabitants. This architectural gem, with its unique Pueblo Deco design, has captivated audiences for nearly a century, and its reputation for paranormal activity only adds to its mystique.
The story of the KiMo Theatre begins with Oreste Bachechi, an Italian immigrant whose ambition and entrepreneurial spirit transformed him from a humble newcomer to a prominent figure in Albuquerque’s burgeoning business scene. Arriving in the United States in 1885, Bachechi eventually established himself in Albuquerque, starting with a simple tent near the railroad tracks. His ventures expanded to include a liquor dealership and a grocery store, with his wife, Maria, operating a dry goods store in the Elms Hotel. By 1919, Bachechi’s success allowed him to form the Bachechi Amusement Association, which operated the Pastime Theatre in partnership with Joe Barnett.
However, Bachechi harbored a more ambitious vision: to construct his own theatre, one that would reflect the unique character of the Southwest. In 1925, he embarked on this project, commissioning an architect to bring his dream to life. The result was a stunning example of Pueblo Deco architecture, a style that blended the geometric motifs of Art Deco with the earthy tones and symbolic elements of Native American art.
The Pueblo Deco style, a brief but vibrant architectural movement, captured the essence of the region. The Haunted KiMo Theatre’s design incorporated stylized depictions of Native American symbols, geometric patterns reminiscent of pottery designs, and the warm colors of the New Mexico landscape. This fusion of cultural influences created a space that was both modern and deeply rooted in the heritage of the Southwest.
Completed at a cost of $150,000, the KiMo Theatre opened its doors on September 19, 1927, during the height of the silent film era. A public contest was held to determine the theatre’s name, and Pablo Abeita won the grand prize of $50 for his suggestion: "KiMo." Derived from two Native American words, "mountain lion," the name was interpreted more broadly as "king of its kind," a fitting title for Bachechi’s grand creation.
Tragically, Oreste Bachechi passed away just a year after seeing his dream realized, leaving the management of the KiMo to his sons. They adapted to the changing entertainment landscape by incorporating vaudeville acts and touring roadshows alongside film screenings. Over the years, the KiMo’s stage played host to a constellation of stars, including Vivian Vance, Gloria Swanson, Tom Mix, and Ginger Rogers, solidifying its place as a premier entertainment venue.
However, the Haunted KiMo Theatre’s history is also marked by tragedy. In 1951, a devastating accident occurred when the boiler in the basement exploded, causing significant damage to the original lobby. A six-year-old boy named Bobby Darnall, who had been watching a movie in the balcony, was tragically killed in the explosion. According to local lore, Bobby’s spirit continues to roam the theatre, making him one of the Haunted KiMo Theatre’s most well-known residents.
Another significant event in the theatre’s history occurred in 1963 when a fire ravaged the original 1927 stage and caused extensive damage to the building. These events, coupled with the urban decay that affected many American downtowns in the mid-20th century, led to the KiMo’s decline.
By the 1970s, the Haunted KiMo Theatre faced the threat of demolition. However, the citizens of Albuquerque recognized the historical and cultural significance of the building and voted to purchase it in 1977. This act of community support saved the KiMo from destruction and paved the way for its restoration.
Since its acquisition by the city, the KiMo has undergone several phases of restoration, returning it to its former glory. Today, the KiMo Theatre operates as a performing arts center, with a seating capacity of 700, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It hosts a diverse range of events, including theatrical productions, concerts, film screenings, and community gatherings.
Beyond its architectural beauty and rich history, the Haunted KiMo Theatre is renowned for its paranormal activity. The most frequently reported ghost is that of Bobby Darnall, the young boy who died in the 1951 explosion. Staff and visitors have reported seeing him playing on the lobby staircase, often described as wearing a striped shirt and blue jeans.
According to local legends, Bobby is a mischievous spirit who enjoys playing pranks on performers and staff. Stories abound of actors tripping, lights malfunctioning, and sound equipment failing during rehearsals and performances. To appease Bobby’s spirit, it has become a tradition to offer him doughnuts, which are hung on a water pipe behind the stage. Often, these treats disappear overnight, and those that remain sometimes bear the marks of small bites.
One particular incident highlights the importance of this offering. During preparations for a Christmas production, the crew removed the stale doughnuts. Almost immediately, technical rehearsals began to unravel, with a series of inexplicable problems plaguing the production. Upon replacing the doughnuts, the issues miraculously resolved themselves, reinforcing the belief that Bobby’s spirit needed to be acknowledged and appeased.
In addition to Bobby, another ghostly presence is said to inhabit the KiMo: a mysterious woman wearing a bonnet. She has been seen walking along the hallways, seemingly going about her business. Little is known about this spectral figure, but she is generally considered to be a benign presence.
The KiMo Theatre’s reputation as a Haunted KiMo Theatre has made it a popular destination for paranormal investigations and ghost tours. Many believe that the building’s history of tragedy and its strong connection to the past have created an environment conducive to paranormal activity. Whether one believes in ghosts or not, the stories surrounding the KiMo add another layer of intrigue to this already fascinating landmark.
The Haunted KiMo Theatre stands as a vibrant testament to Albuquerque’s cultural heritage, a place where history, art, and the paranormal intertwine. From its origins as a dream realized by an ambitious immigrant to its current role as a thriving performing arts center, the KiMo continues to captivate and inspire. Whether you are drawn to its architectural beauty, its rich history, or its ghostly legends, the KiMo Theatre offers a unique and unforgettable experience.