Kessler Theater

Kessler Theater

Kessler Theater
Address	1230 W Davis St. Dallas
Capacity	500
Opened	1941
Website
thekessler.org

The Kessler Theater is a historic entertainment venue, originally constructed in 1941, and located in the Winnetka Heights neighborhood of Oak Cliff, Dallas, Texas.[1][2]

History

The Kessler initially served as a neighborhood movie house, providing entertainment to residents of Oak Cliff and surrounding areas.[3] Gene Autry, who owned several theaters in Oak Cliff, bought it in 1945.[3] A tornado hit the building in 1957, and a fire around 1960 put the theater out of commission.[3]

In 2010, the theatre underwent a major renovation led by preservationist Edwin Cabaniss and musician Jeff Liles, with the goal of restoring its original condition and transforming it into a live music venue.[3][4] The renovation project received widespread community support and funding from various sources, including private donors and government grants.[5]

Architecture

The Kessler Theater was designed by renowned Dallas architect George Dahl^[citation needed] and built in the Art Deco style;[2] it features a distinctive marquee, intricate detailing, and an auditorium with a capacity of approximately 400 guests.[6] The interior displays 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. Stone, Rachel (2015-10-27). "The Kessler Theater in the 1950s". Oak Cliff. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
4. Simek, Peter (2010-05-19). "Oak Cliff's Kessler Theater is Back. Now What?". D Magazine. Retrieved 2024-04-13.
5. "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.
6. "Save Our Stages: Kessler Theater owner hopes bipartisan relief bill can aid Texas music venues". Dallas News. 2020-07-24. Retrieved 2024-04-14.

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