Temple Theatre, Movie theater in Historic Downtown Meridian, United States
The Hamasa Shrine Temple Theater at 2320 8th Street is a Moorish Revival building with a Byzantine motif, marble fountains and large bronze chandeliers. Its auditorium seats 1800 and its stage was second in size only to New York's Roxy when built. A Robert Morton organ with 608 pipes in eight ranks stands in two chambers flanking the stage.
The Hamasa Shrine hired architect Emile Weil, and construction began in 1923; the Shriners moved into the completed Grand Ballroom in 1924 while the rest was built around them. In 1927 they leased the theater to the Saenger corporation of New Orleans, which modified it into a movie house; with a Robert Morton organ added, it was completed in 1928. Saenger renewed the lease in 1952 for 20 years, and the Shriners began restoration after it expired in 1973.
The name comes from the Hamasa Shrine, which built the theater and held meetings in its Grand Ballroom from 1924. The lobby's terrazzo floor was inlaid with brass stars, crescents and swastikas; the swastikas were removed during World War II. Today the venue hosts live stage shows, plays and concerts year-round.
The theater is located downtown with parking available near the building for visitors. Check with the venue directly for current showtimes and upcoming events to plan your visit accordingly.
The theater houses one of just two Robert Morton pipe organs still functioning in their original locations throughout Mississippi. This instrument with eight ranks remains a working part of the theater experience and is played during performances and special events.
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