Cactus Theater, Art Deco theater in Lubbock, United States
The Cactus Theater is a live performance and movie theater in Lubbock, Texas, with 383 modern seats and an Art Deco design by architect Robert Maxey. It retains its original balcony and sloped ground floor, and a full stage was added during its 1990s renovation. Murals by John Russell Thomasson depicting Caprock Canyon cover both walls.
Built in 1938 as Lubbock's first suburban neighborhood movie theater, the Cactus was designed in Art Deco style by architect Robert Maxey for businessmen Joe H. Bryant, M. A. Sanders and Glenn Woody. It operated as a second-run house with 720 seats and washed-air cooling until competition from seventeen city theaters and six drive-ins forced it to close on May 6, 1958. In 1993 Don Caldwell and investors bought it during Depot District development and refurbished it for live performance.
The venue presents concerts, theatrical productions, and classic films that reflect Texas entertainment traditions. These performances help connect the local community with its artistic heritage.
The venue is easily accessible from 19th Street and Texas Avenue with straightforward entry for visitors. Modern sound equipment and laser projection systems ensure a quality viewing experience.
A large mural by artist John Russell Thomasson depicting Caprock Canyon adorns the interior, representing the natural landscape of West Texas. This artwork connects the entertainment venue with the region's natural environment.
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