Buckhead Theatre | Atlanta

The Buckhead Theatre is a historic entertainment venue located in the heart of Buckhead Village in Atlanta, Georgia. Its rich history, architectural elegance, and continued role as a cultural hub make it a cornerstone of Atlanta’s performing arts scene. Originally opened in 1930, the Buckhead Theatre has evolved over the decades from a neighborhood movie house into a major venue for live music, theater, and special events.

Historical Background

The Buckhead Theatre officially opened its doors on June 2, 1930, during the golden age of movie palaces in the United States. It was designed by the local architectural firm Daniell & Beutell, known for their work in both residential and commercial styles. The theater quickly became a popular fixture in the then-small community of Buckhead, serving both as a second-run movie theater and a civic center for public gatherings, lectures, and musical performances.

In its early years, the venue was home to community groups such as the Buckhead Symphony Orchestra, and also hosted school functions, talent shows, and community pageants. As the decades passed and Buckhead grew into one of Atlanta’s most affluent neighborhoods, the theater’s role in the cultural landscape of the city also expanded and adapted.

Timeline of Transformation

1961 – Capri Theatre:
The theater was rebranded as the Capri Theatre when it became part of the Weis Theater chain. It continued to show films but began to see the decline in single-screen movie houses that occurred nationally during the rise of multiplex cinemas.

1980s – Buckhead Cinema & Drafthouse:
During this period, the venue adapted to trends by offering food and beverages during movie screenings. This version of the theater offered a more relaxed, dinner-and-a-movie atmosphere.

1987 to 2008 – Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre:
In the late 1980s, the theater experienced a major shift when it was converted into a concert venue and renamed the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre. It became a hotspot for live music in Atlanta, particularly popular for hosting rock, alternative, and indie bands. During this time, it gained a reputation as one of Atlanta’s premier mid-size music venues.

2010 – Return to Buckhead Theatre:
After closing in 2008, the building underwent a significant renovation initiated by Charles Loudermilk, founder of Rent-A-Center and a long-time Buckhead resident. He spearheaded a $6 million restoration to return the venue to its original grandeur while updating it for modern use. When it reopened in June 2010, the venue reclaimed its historic name—Buckhead Theatre.

2017 – Live Nation Acquisition:
In 2017, Live Nation, one of the world’s largest entertainment companies, took over operations. They invested a further $7 million into the venue, modernizing technical infrastructure, enhancing the artist and audience experience, and solidifying the Buckhead Theatre's role as a key performance space in Atlanta.

Architectural Features

The Buckhead Theatre’s architecture is best described as Spanish Baroque Revival, a popular style for movie palaces and public buildings during the early 20th century. Distinctive elements of the style are preserved or restored in the theater’s structure:

Stucco and Ornamental Facade:
The building features a stucco exterior with decorative molding and carved stone details, which evoke the elaborate artistry of Spanish and Moorish design.

Grand Marquee and Neon Lighting:
The marquee has been updated but still retains the retro aesthetic of a classic 1930s cinema.

Interior Details:
Inside, the theater blends original design elements—such as wrought iron railings, ornate ceiling moldings, and chandeliers—with modern acoustic enhancements, plush seating, and expanded lobby spaces.

Stage and Seating:
The auditorium now has a flexible configuration with a standing-room general admission floor and a seated balcony, allowing for both intimate and high-energy performances.

Current Use and Cultural Impact

Today, the Buckhead Theatre serves as a multi-purpose venue with a capacity of approximately 1,800 guests. Its programming is diverse, hosting:

Live concerts across genres including rock, country, R&B, indie, jazz, and hip-hop.

Stand-up comedy and spoken word performances.

Theatrical performances, local productions, and cultural showcases.

Private events, including weddings, fundraisers, corporate events, and film screenings.

Under Live Nation’s management, the theater has hosted nationally and internationally recognized performers, while also supporting local talent and emerging artists. Its intimate size makes it a favored venue for artists seeking a close connection with their audience.

Visitor Amenities and Information

Address: 3110 Roswell Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with wheelchair access, accessible seating, and assistive listening devices available upon request.

Parking: Multiple paid parking lots are available nearby. Street parking and valet options may also be present during larger events.

Food & Beverage: Onsite bars serve a selection of craft beers, wines, cocktails, and light snacks. Specialty offerings may be available depending on the event.

Merchandise and VIP: Many performances include VIP upgrades, early entry, and exclusive merchandise.

Legacy and Importance

The Buckhead Theatre stands as a cultural landmark in Atlanta. It encapsulates nearly a century of entertainment history, reflecting the evolution of performance art and public gatherings. Its preservation and continuous reinvention speak to Atlanta’s dedication to honoring its architectural past while remaining responsive to the present-day demands of arts and entertainment.

It remains one of Atlanta’s most cherished mid-size venues, appealing to both locals and visitors looking for a stylish, intimate, and acoustically excellent environment to enjoy live performance.