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History
 The
Tennessee Theatre is one of the few great movie palaces from the
Roaring Twenties still in operation. Opening its doors on October
1, 1928, the Tennessee made kings and queens of all who entered
its lavish interior. After all, the idea of the movie palace was
to create a fantasy land, a place where people could go to forget
the outside world and its troubles -- at least while they were inside
the castle on Gay Street.
Chicago architects Graven & Mayger
brought to the Tennessee Theatre a Spanish-Moorish style interior,
although the design incorporates elements from all parts of the
world: Czechoslovakian crystals in the French-style chandeliers,
Italian terrazzo flooring in the Grand Lobby, and Oriental influences
in the carpet and drapery patterns. The Tennessee Theatre was one
of the first public places in Knoxville to have air-conditioning.
When the first patrons stepped into the cooled building to see their
favorite stars on the silver screen, they paid only 40 cents for
matinees and 60 cents for evening shows (children paid only 10 and
15 cents)!
 Today,
the Tennessee Theatre is used for much more than movies and simple
stage shows. It is owned by the Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation,
Inc., and managed by . Local arts organizations such as the , the , the Appalachian Ballet, and use the Theatre for concerts and performances throughout
the year. Music of other kinds also fills the opulent auditorium:
many great artists in the genres of rock, folk, country, jazz, and
blues have graced the Tennessee stage. The Theatre is also the site
of special events; wedding receptions, private parties, corporate
meetings, and other functions are enhanced by its magnificent interior.
After the Theatre's
is complete, it will be a true multi-purpose performing arts venue,
better able to serve Knoxville's arts organizations, national
touring
productions, and all those who desire to step into the magical
world of the Tennessee Theatre.
Please take a moment to learn more
about the Tennessee Theatre's history in the .
Take a Tour of the Theatre with IPIX
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