Tennessee Theatre

The Tennessee Theatre is an entertainment venue in downtown Knoxville designed with Spanish-Moorish and Art Deco architectural features. The auditorium showcases multiple chandeliers, ornamental murals, and red velvet seating throughout the space.

The theater opened in 1928 and served as an entertainment centerpiece during the Great Depression and World War II. It established itself as a venue for both films and live performances during economically challenging times.

The theater hosts regular opera and orchestra performances alongside Broadway productions and classic film screenings. These events shape the city's cultural life and draw audiences from across the region.

Visitors should plan to purchase tickets in advance online, as the box office opens two hours before performances begin. Guided tours are available on select dates and offer a good way to explore the architectural details of the building.

The building houses an original 1928 Wurlitzer organ that rises from beneath the stage during special musical performances. This mechanical instrument is a rare survivor from the era of grand movie palaces.

Location: Knoxville

Inception: October 1, 1928

Part of: The Burwell

Address: 604 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902

Website: https://tennesseetheatre.com

GPS coordinates: 35.96222,-83.91944

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55