On Friday night we were given the privilege of receiving a private tour of the Historic Tennessee Theatre. This theatre is the Official State Theatre of Tennessee. The theatre hosts concerts, classic movies, even Broadway theatre performances.
The theatre underwent a $25.5 million dollar renovation to preserve to restore the original 1928 Spanish styling. They only had black and white pictures to go off of, so they had to try their best to match up coloring. The flooring is mainly original, there is one section that did have to be replaced due to cracking.
Concessions have been added to make this a more modern experience to the movie or concert experience. Items at the concession stand include: soda, alcohol, and popcorn.
The theatre is lucky enough to have both digital and film projectors that were donated by Regal Entertainment Group. The theatre may be one of the last in the area to have a film projector and actually play film on select occasions. This depends, on what the theatre can get their hands on.
There are dressing rooms that are named after people who have performed at the theatre. The dressing rooms vary in size. They also have "meet and greet" areas that have tables and couches.
The theatre has hidden pieces scattered throughout. Like the sprinklers and the sirens in case of emergency are hidden. The sirens will flip from inside the wall if there is ever an emergency. There are also little paintings hidden in the wall, like a moon, a bee, and a man's face.
If you ever find yourself in Knoxville you should make your way to the Tennessee theatre for a show. You will be blown away by the beauty and history of the building.
