|
|
Kingsport State Theatre
Kingsport Tennessee Theatres
157 Broad Street
Kingsport, TN 37660
Kingsport State Theatre in Downtown Kingsport, Tennessee
The very historic Kingsport State Theater, which some say is haunted by the patrons and performers in its past, is currently in a historic renovation process of being brought back to its original architectural plans, designed by well-known architect Erle Stillwell. It is on the Tennessee State Heritage Trail and the newly renovated facility will eventually be a multi-use venue with a state-of-the-art Digital Cinema, Food and Drinks, VIP Balcony Seating, a Roof-Top Bar and a Live Performance Stage.
KINGSPORT STATE THEATRE HISTORY: The State Theatre was opened on March 6, 1936 with Bing Crosby in "Anything Goes". Designed by architect Erle G. Stilwell, the 700 seat movie theatre was originally decorated in the Mediterranean Rivival/Atmospheric style, complete with murals and a lighted star constellation in the ceiling. The theatre has both screen and stage capabilities.
In the mid-1950's, the State Theatre was remodeled to accommodate more modern tastes and the CinemaScope format. The Mediterranean garden wall was removed, the murals painted over and a permanent screen erected. It was operated by the Wilbey-Kincey chain.
In 1978, the State Theatre showed its final feature film and was closed. On January 11, 1985 it reopened as the Christian Cinema, screening religious films. On August 12, 1988 it was renamed All American Family Cinema. Around 1990 to 1992 it became a dinner theatre then a nightclub and a gymnasium. It was last used for 10 years as a cheerleading school.
Click Here to watch a March 2022 WJHL News broadcast with the latest on the this exciting project. The new theatre owner, Mark Hunt, hopes to re-open the Kingsport State Theatre in Spring 2023!! To see this historic treasure brought back to life is a joy to behold!! Who knows. Who knows... Perhaps this will even help to "raise everyone's spirits" in Downtown Kingsport!!! |
| Click Here to discover how you can save money on your next visit to the Southern Appalachian Mountains with any of Appalachian GhostWalks nearby attractions, museums, accommodations, and much more. Be sure to visit our "Spook and Save" Vacation Planning Page. |
Combine Kingsport State Theatre with one of
Appalachian GhostWalks Ghost History & Bigfoot Tours
RESERVE ONLINE or Call (423) 743-9255
|
