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Hattiesburg Saenger Theater: A Downtown Gem

Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at Hattiesburg's historic Saenger Theater, a beautifully restored Art Deco landmark in the heart of downtown.

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The Hattiesburg Saenger Theater, a beautifully restored Art Deco movie palace, has been a cultural cornerstone of downtown Hattiesburg since 1929. Hosting a variety of events from concerts and comedy shows to theatrical productions, it offers a glimpse into the golden age of entertainment.

A brief summary to Hattiesburg Saenger Theater

Local tips

  • Check the Saenger Theater's website for an updated list of events and showtimes.
  • Consider arriving early to explore the theater's architecture and historical features.
  • Public parking is available in downtown Hattiesburg, but it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot, especially for popular events.
  • Take advantage of nearby restaurants and shops in the downtown area before or after a show.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in downtown Hattiesburg, the Saenger Theater is easily accessible on foot. From the intersection of Hardy Street and Main Street, walk east on Hardy Street, which turns into Front Street. The Saenger Theater will be on your left at the corner of Forrest Street. Walking time is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Hub City Transit provides bus service to downtown Hattiesburg. The nearest bus stop to the Saenger Theater is at Front Street and Forrest Street. From the bus stop, the theater is a short walk away. A single ride fare is $0.50.

  • Ride Sharing

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hattiesburg. Specify 'Hattiesburg Saenger Theater' as your destination. The designated pick-up and drop-off location is on Forrest Street. A short ride from most locations within Hattiesburg will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on distance and demand.

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Discover more about Hattiesburg Saenger Theater

The Hattiesburg Saenger Theater, located on Forrest Street, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and commitment to the arts. Opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1929, this architectural gem, designed by Emile Weil, quickly became the premier entertainment venue in the Hub City. Originally a movie palace showcasing silent films, the Saenger adapted to the changing times, hosting vaudeville acts, operas, lectures, and even carnival balls. The theater's design, featuring Neoclassical Revival and Art Deco elements, includes a Robert Morton organ that was played before and between films and shows. For children, admission was just six cents. During World War II, troops from nearby Camp Shelby frequented the theater. After closing in the late 1960s and a period of dormancy, the City of Hattiesburg acquired the Saenger and began a series of renovations to restore its former glory. The theater was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Today, the Saenger continues to host a diverse range of performances, ensuring its legacy as a vibrant cultural hub for generations to come.

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