Kessler Theater

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Chango23 (talk | contribs) at 23:49, 13 April 2024 (-- Draft creation using the WP:Article wizard -- Kessler Theater page submission). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)

Kessler Theater

The Kessler Theater is a historic live music venue located in the neighborhood of Oak Cliff in Dallas, Texas. Originally constructed in 1941, the theatre has a rich history intertwined with the city.[1][2]

History

The Kessler Theater was designed by renowned Dallas architect George Dahl and built in the Art Deco style.[3] It initially served as a neighborhood movie house, providing entertainment to residents of Oak Cliff and surrounding areas.[4] Gene Autry, who owned several theaters in Oak Cliff, bought it in 1945. A tornado hit it in 1957, and a fire around 1960 put it out of commission.[4]

In 2010, the theatre underwent a major renovation led by preservationist Edwin Cabaniss and musician Jeff Liles, with the goal of restoring its original grandeur and transforming it into a premier live music venue.[4][5] The renovation project received widespread community support and funding from various sources, including private donors and government grants.[6]

Architecture

The Kessler Theater boasts Art Deco architecture, featuring a distinctive marquee, intricate detailing, and a spacious auditorium with a capacity of approximately 400 guests. The interior showcases original elements such as ornate moldings, vibrant murals, and a grand stage adorned with velvet curtains.[citation needed]

References

  1. ^ Jones, Preston. "The Secret Sisters' Sparkling Sibling Harmonies Made the Kessler Theater Glow". Dallas Observer. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
  2. ^ Goodman, Matt (2024-03-11). "For One Night Only, the Kessler Theater Turns Into the Starck Club". D Magazine. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
  3. ^ Goodman, Matt (2024-03-11). "For One Night Only, the Kessler Theater Turns Into the Starck Club". D Magazine. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
  4. ^ a b c Stone, Rachel (2015-10-27). "The Kessler Theater in the 1950s". Oak Cliff. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
  5. ^ Simek, By Peter (2010-05-19). "Oak Cliff's Kessler Theater is Back. Now What?". D Magazine. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
  6. ^ "Why Oak Cliff's Kessler Theater is attracting the crème de la crème of musical acts". Dallas News. 2012-02-24. Retrieved 2024-04-13.