Macon’s Douglass Theatre enters a second century of serving the Central Georgia community which promotes artistic creativity along with providing a venue for contemporary entertainment.
The Douglass had hosted mostly African-American performers such as Macon’s own Otis Redding and Little Richard along with jazz and blues legends James Brown and Ma Rainey. Plus, the Douglass featured various exclusive films and serials which had been popular and/or unique during the time period .
After integration began to filter through the South in the 1960’s and early 1970’s, the Douglass had closed in 1972. However, after encouragement from many parts of the Macon community, the Douglass reopened its doors to the public on January 11, 1997–25 years later.
The Douglass’ mission of serving people hasn’t changed, but now this historic landmark is facilitator of unity which features multicultural events, films and performances.
The Douglass Theatre is named after Charles Douglass , who was the son of a former slave and born in 1870.
Despite living in a time of Jim Crow laws and segregation, Douglass became a successful businessman and in 1898, he had started a bicycle repair and renting business. Soon thereafter, he worked with the Georgia Loan and Saving Company and this is where he had met Fannie, Douglass’ future wife.
Douglas’ passion to be the best that he can be is something that has become a recurring theme at the Douglass to this very day.
One example of the programs featured at the Douglass is the ARTISTS EXPOSED program. ‘Artists Exposed’ is a recurring program that puts on display the talents of various local artists primarily in Macon and Central Georgia.
Additionally, the work of the artists is reviewed and is available for purchase. Usually, the works of art are featured for one month.
STAGEWORKZ is an example of how the Douglass attempts to motivate today’s youth via an interactive hands-on day camp experience. The Stageworks-Kidz Tech program exposes the kids to world of stage acting along with being able to how to operate sound and lighting equipment among other things.
THE MACON FILM GUILD AT THE DOUGLASS THEATRE is an example of the exclusive screening of serials and full-future films that the Douglass has always done over the years.
Screenings normally commence on the second Sunday of each month at 2:00, 4:30 and 7:30 PM unless otherwise notified.
For more information about the Historic Douglass Theatre, call 478-742-2000 .
