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Princess Theatre: Decatur's Art Deco Jewel

Decatur's historic Princess Theatre: A vibrant Art Deco landmark for performing arts and community enrichment.

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The Princess Theatre in Decatur, Alabama, began as a livery stable in 1887 and transformed into a performing arts venue in 1919. Remodeled in Art Deco style in 1941, it's a cherished landmark hosting diverse events.

A brief summary to Princess Theatre

Local tips

  • Check the Princess Theatre's website for the most up-to-date event schedule and ticket information.
  • Arrive early for performances to secure parking, as it can be limited, especially during popular events.
  • Consider exploring downtown Decatur's dining and shopping options before or after a show.
  • Look for free parking near the theater, especially behind the Cook Museum on Holly Street between 2nd and 4th Ave.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Morgan County Courthouse, walk two blocks east on 2nd Avenue NE. The Princess Theatre will be on your right, at the intersection of 2nd Avenue NE and Holly Street. Walking time is approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    NARCOG Transit provides public transportation in Decatur. From most locations in Decatur, schedule a ride at least 24 hours in advance by calling (256) 580-2088. The fare is $2 per one-way trip, payable in exact change. The Transit Office is located at 216 Jackson Street SE.

  • Driving

    From US-31, turn east onto 6th Avenue NE, then turn left onto 2nd Avenue NE. Continue for several blocks. The Princess Theatre will be on your left at the intersection of 2nd Avenue NE and Holly Street. Free street-side parking is often available, especially behind the Cook Museum on Holly Street between 2nd and 4th Ave. Alternatively, paid parking is available at the City Parking Lot behind the Princess Theatre on Holly Street, with rates starting at $0.50 per hour.

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Discover more about Princess Theatre

The Princess Theatre, a cornerstone of Decatur, Alabama's cultural scene, has a rich and varied history. Constructed in 1887, the building initially served as a livery stable for the Casa Grande Hotel, accommodating horses and carriages. In 1919, it was converted into a theater, hosting silent films and vaudeville acts, marking the beginning of its life as a performing arts venue. In 1941, the Princess underwent a significant Art Deco redesign, transforming it into the architectural gem it is today. Local architect Albert Frahn painted the interior in burgundy and gray, adding glow-in-the-dark murals. A bright neon marquee was installed, becoming a recognizable feature of the theater. The floor outside the doors is paved with a terrazzo map of Alabama, highlighting the Tennessee River and the city of Decatur. After closing as a movie house, the City of Decatur purchased the Princess in 1978, undertaking a $750,000 renovation. This revitalized the theater, reopening it as a premier performing arts venue. It was added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage in 1981 and the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. Today, the 677-seat Princess Theatre hosts a wide array of events, including concerts, plays, musicals, and film screenings. It also runs an arts-in-education program for children in Decatur and surrounding areas. The theater's ongoing renovations aim to restore it to its 1950s and 1960s appearance, including uncovering Albert Frahn's murals. The Princess Theatre remains a source of community pride, offering cultural enrichment and entertainment to the region.

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