Princess Theatre: Decatur's Art Deco Jewel

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.