MBP 2020-21 Book2 - Flipbook - Page 63
Coming Soon: “100 Years and Beyond” at the Historic Douglass Theatre
Next year, the Historic Douglass Theatre celebrates its centennial anniversary with “100 Years and
Beyond.” Throughout 2021, this momentous milestone allows the Douglass Theatre to showcase its rich
history while anticipating the longevity and prosperity its future holds. Of course, none of this would be
possible without the theatre’s innovative founder--Charles Henry Douglass.
Charles Henry Douglass made significant contributions to
Macon’s African American community when he opened the
Douglass Theatre in 1921. By applying his entrepreneurial
acumen and his desire to ensure equality for AfricanAmericans, Douglass created a safe haven for AfricanAmericans to express themselves freely without fear of
racism or judgement in an era of racial violence and hatred.
His vision led to the Douglass Theatre, “the premier movie
theatre and vaudeville hall open to African-American citizens
in the city.” Throughout the years, the theatre epitomized
breath-taking artistry and incomparable excellence of major
entertainers, such as Ida Cox, Bessie Smith, Ma Rainey, Duke
Ellington, Otis Redding, Little Richard, James Brown, and
scores of others who revolutionized the country’s cultural and
entertainment landscape. The Douglass Theatre remained a
place of liberation even after Douglass’s death in 1940. After
completing a well-deserved restoration, the “Friends of the
Douglass Theatre” –a group of volunteers who understood its
significance-- reopened the downtown theatre in 1997, relaunching Douglass’s legacy and progressive vision.
As one of the last black-owned theatres in the United States, the Historic Douglass Theatre has
broadened its events and activities to appeal to the ever-changing population of Macon and surrounding
cities. Some of the seasonal and annual programs include: The Jimmy L. Mills, Jr. Choral Heritage
Festival; Sing Brother! Sing Sister! (a recital of Negro Spirituals); HBCU Art Series; Thursday Night at
the Movies; Women’s History Month Luncheon; Black History Month Film Series; Jazz in the Courtyard;
Stageworks Summer Theatre Camp; Douglass Walk of Fame as well as many more programs that
recognize and support rich contributions of Middle Georgia’s African American community.
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