Kessler Theater Explained

Address:1230 W Davis St.
City:Dallas
Capacity:500
Opened:1941

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 the building in 1957, and a fire around 1960 put the theater out of commission.

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.[5] The renovation project received widespread community support and funding from various sources, including private donors and government grants.[6]

Architecture

The Kessler Theater has Art Deco architecture, featuring a distinctive marquee, intricate detailing, and an auditorium with a capacity of approximately 400 guests.[7] The interior displays original elements such as ornate moldings, vibrant murals, and a grand stage adorned with velvet curtains.

References

32.7493°N -96.8425°W

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Jones . Preston . The Secret Sisters' Sparkling Sibling Harmonies Made the Kessler Theater Glow . 2024-04-13 . Dallas Observer . en.
  2. Web site: Goodman . Matt . 2024-03-11 . For One Night Only, the Kessler Theater Turns Into the Starck Club . 2024-04-13 . D Magazine . en-US.
  3. Web site: Goodman . Matt . 2024-03-11 . For One Night Only, the Kessler Theater Turns Into the Starck Club . 2024-04-13 . D Magazine . en-US.
  4. Web site: Stone . Rachel . 2015-10-27 . The Kessler Theater in the 1950s . 2024-04-13 . Oak Cliff . en-US.
  5. Web site: Simek . By Peter . 2010-05-19 . Oak Cliff's Kessler Theater is Back. Now What? . 2024-04-13 . D Magazine . en-US.
  6. Web site: 2012-02-24 . Why Oak Cliff's Kessler Theater is attracting the crème de la crème of musical acts . 2024-04-13 . Dallas News . en.
  7. Web site: 2020-07-24 . Save Our Stages: Kessler Theater owner hopes bipartisan relief bill can aid Texas music venues . 2024-04-14 . Dallas News . en.