Historic Tennessee Theatre: A mix of art and history
Known as the official state theatre of Tennessee, the Historic Tennessee Theatre brings Knoxville a blend of history and today’s arts.
The theatre has a colorful past mixed with interesting characters. In November 1927, Chicago-based contractor George M. Fuller broke ground between Gay and State Streets, beginning construction of the Tennessee Theatre. The following year, the Tennessee Theatre opened to the public, owned and operated by Publix. The first movie shown, “The Fleet’s In,” starred Clara Bow.
The roster of stars to grace the theatre’s threshold are noteworthy, to say the least. In 1958, “Thunder Road” premiered with star Robert Mitchum in attendance. In 1963, actor Robert Preston attended the world premiere movie adaptation of James Agee’s “All the Way Home,” which also starred Jean Simmons and Knoxville native John Cullum. Two years later in 1965, actor Anthony Perkins attended the premiere of his movie, “The Fool Killer.”
But the theatre met a sad fate in 1977 when it ceased operations for the first time in almost 50 years. After briefly opening a year later to show vintage films with the help of a local organization called Tennessee Theatre Classics, theatre closed again in 1978. But love for the theatre remained unconditional when the historic theatre reopened for good in the late 1970s-early 1980s.
In 2001, the Tennessee celebrated its 73rd birthday in a grand style with a special performance of the reinstalled Mighty Wurlitzer. Today, the theatre has become one of the premiere locations to celebrate and enjoy the arts in Knoxville. The Tennessee features Kentucky Symphony Orchestra performances, Broadway shows and performances by popular artists such as 311, Clay Aiken and more.
HelloKnoxville Tip: Free parking is available for most night and weekend performances at the Statet Street garage located behind the theatre, as well as the nearby Locust Street and Market Square garages.
Posted by Leah M. Caudle
