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Chattanooga is home to the
Tivoli Theatre, a
fabulous historic showplace known as the “Jewel of the
South.” For over 85 years the grand old theatre has
entertained Chattanoogans, offering everything from
silent movies to Broadway blockbusters.
 The
Tivoli opened on March 19, 1921 following two years of
construction. Construction cost was close to $1
million--a lavish sum for its day. The Tivoli's interior
reflects the Beaux Arts style popular for movie palaces
of the 1920s. Its high domed ceiling, grand lobby,
crystal chandeliers and elegant foyer were designed to
transport patrons to a world of richness and splendor.
Designed by the Chicago-based architectural firm of Rapp
and Rapp, the Tivoli was built to accommodate both
silent movies and live stage productions, making it
state-of-the-art for its time. More innovations
followed. In 1924 a $30,000 Wurlitzer organ was
installed. And in 1926 the Tivoli became one of the
first public buildings in the country to be air
conditioned. Also in 1926, Paramount Studios bought the
Tivoli, making it part of the Paramount-Publix theater
chain.
Throughout the 1920s,
30s and 40s, the Tivoli reigned as Chattanooga's premier
movie and variety theater. However, with the emergence
of television in the 1950s its patronage declined.
Forced to close in 1961, the Tivoli narrowly escaped
demolition.
In 1963, a grant from
Chattanooga's Benwood Foundation allowed the Tivoli to
reopen after a partial renovation. The Tivoli was placed
on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and
was purchased by the City of Chattanooga in 1976 for
$300,000.
In 1979, the Chattanooga Arts Council (now Allied Arts)
received a $25,000 grant from the Lyndhurst Foundation
for a feasibility study on restoring the Tivoli to its
former glory. It wasn't until 1986, however, that the
State of Tennessee made $3.5 million available for
renovation. A private campaign raised another $3.2
million, and the City of Chattanooga contributed
$300,000.
After a two-year
renovation, the Tivoli reopened to rave reviews on March
29, 1989. In addition to a complete cosmetic overhaul,
the Tivoli's technical improvements included new
dressing rooms to accommodate up to 70 performers, new
state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, a hydraulic
lift orchestra pit, and new "green room" and rehearsal
facilities. Stage depth was increased by over 14 feet to
meet the requirements of today's concerts and theatrical
tours.
From 1920s "picture
palace" to community showplace for the 21st century, the
Tivoli still offers Chattanoogans the finest in
entertainment and cultural events. The Tivoli is the
home of the
Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Association, and also
welcomes a wide variety of touring companies each year.
With offerings from blues to bluegrass and classical to
country; plus dance, opera and the best of Broadway, the
Tivoli is at the center of Chattanooga's cultural life.
Its elegance and intimacy have made it a favorite of
audiences and performers alike.
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