Lucas Theatre for the Arts

History of the Lucas Theatre
In 1921, film distribution pioneer Arthur Lucas opened Savanah’s first and only “movie palace,” to a soldout viewing of the film “Camille.” Partons quickly got accustomed to enjoying first-run movie hits, live vaudeville performances, a resident theatre company, big bands and visits by Hollywood stars. As the “vaudeville” era ended and the movie industry evolved and proliferated, the Lucas was unable to attract an audience. After operating 55 years, the Lucas closed its doors May 21, 1976, after the showing of “The Exorcist."
in 9187, Savannah residents Emma and Lee Adler established the Lucas Theatre for the Performing Arts as a not-for-profit corporation and launched an ambitious fund-raising campaign fund as extensive restoration of the theatre and the installation of state-of-the-art equipment. The Lucas reopened in December 2000 to provide a variety of community entertainment.
The theatre’s architectural features — including a 40-foot-wide ceiling dome — are worthy of the many house invested in its restoration. From an Italian Renaissancce exterior to the ornate Italianate interior, the Lucas sits majestically at teh corner of Abercorn and Congress streets on Reynold Square. The intricately detailed Adam-style plasterwork, Wedgewood inspired colors and gold leaf accents, have all been restored to their original opulence.
The Lucas Theatre offers visitors the oppoetunity to take a glimpse at Savanah’s past, while enjoying the best in entertainment.