MODERN TIMES premieres in New York City, February 5th, 1936

The scene outside the Rivoli for Chaplin's premiere.

Modern Times was not only Hollywood's last "silent" film (although the film had sound effects and Chaplin's voice is heard for the first time in a nonsense song at the end), but it also marked the farewell appearance of The Little Tramp.

Chaplin's first film in five years created a near-riot situation outside the Rivoli Theater in New York. Nearly 5000 curious fans stormed the doors of the theater hoping to catch a glimpse of the celebrities who were attending the premiere, among them were Gloria Swanson, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Edward G. Robinson, Ginger Rogers, and Anna May Wong. Chaplin and his co-star Paulette Goddard did not attend the New York opening but did attend the Hollywood premiere a week later on February 12th.

Chaplin Studios Daily Production Report for Feb. 5th, 1936. The premiere is mentioned in the memo section.
(The initials "C.H." are probably those of secretary Catherine Hunter)
 Source: Modern Times, Chaplin Project N. 2