Now undergoing a major “facelift,” the “grand dame” of Manila’s theaters is on its way to being restored to its former glory.

The Art Deco building constructed in 1931 by Juan Arellano was badly damaged during wartime, and rebuilt in 1978 by former First Lady Imelda Marcos.

But the “Met,” as the “grand dame” of Manila’s theaters is fondly referred to, fell into decay a decade ago and closed down in 1996 following a long-running dispute between the Government Service Insurance System and the City of Manila over its ownership and management.

Read Allison Lopez’ complete PDI article here.

View photos of the ongoing renovation here.