Moyssi

For anyone who grew up in the metro NY/NJ area in the 1970's, the Capital Theater in Passaic was the place to see rock and roll. The 1920's relic was purchased by legendary concert promoter, John Scher in 1971 shortly after the legendary Fillmore East closed its doors.

James D. Moyssiadis aka Moyssi has lovingly created this website as a tribute to the theater and the fabulous concert programs produced by Churchmouse/Moyssi for John Scher Presents from 1977 through 1984 and, briefly in 1975, for Clone The Word, Inc. Most of these programs feature an original cover illustration by Moyssi, created specifically for each concert.

The Capitol Theatre, according to Billboard Magazine in 1980, was “the No.1 concert hall in the nation under 6,000 seats.” The Capitol had the best acoustical environment (2-inch thick acoustical padding on the interior walls), an unobstructed view of the stage from every seat and the best bands in the world, including The Grateful Dead, The Who, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones—and just about everyone else who toured in the 70s and 80s. The Capitol Theatre was also the longest running concert hall in rock'n'roll history.

"If the theatre had defects such as its miniscule stage, the lack of a fly loft, and dressing rooms unfit for anyone other than mad dogs and Englishmen, it also had great qualities that included an unobstructed view of the stage from every seat, and a peerless acoustical environment due to 2-inches of painted acoustical padding on all the interior walls—and no balconies to interfere with the sound waves. Most importantly, the Capitol Theatre carried on a great tradition established by Bill Graham at the Fillmore East: the best bands, the best crews, and the best place to enjoy a great show."


New Riders of The Purple Sage - Date: October 31, 1975 / November 1, 1975

Poco; Tom Waits / ZZ Top; Slade - Date: November 14, 1975 / November 15, 1975

Frank Zappa - Date: October 13, 1978

My memories are somewhat hazed by the chemicals and years but I do recall seeing acts like Mountain, J. Geils, Hot Tuna, NRPS, David Bromberg, Queen, The Climax Blues Band and of course the Dead at the Capital. Incredible stuff.

Long live the show. Enjoy more at the site



All images are courtesy of:
Moyssi.com