Savannah Theatre | Savannah

The Savannah Theatre, located prominently on Chippewa Square in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, is not only a premier entertainment venue but also a significant cultural and architectural landmark. Originally opened in 1818, it is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States. Over the course of more than two centuries, the Savannah Theatre has hosted an extraordinary array of performances, adapted to the evolving tastes of audiences, and survived fires, renovations, and the changing tides of American history.

Architectural and Historical Origins

The original building was designed by William Jay, a young English architect who also contributed other neoclassical masterpieces to Savannah, such as the Owens-Thomas House. His design of the Savannah Theatre featured Federal-style architecture, symmetrical in form with an elegant brick façade, arched windows, and ornamental ironwork.

In its early years, the theatre was a social epicenter of Savannah’s cultural scene. It featured a full array of live performances, including vaudeville acts, operas, dramas, and musical productions. The theater was an important stop on the national performing circuit, and many prominent figures of the 19th century graced its stage. Among them were Sarah Bernhardt, Oscar Wilde, and W.C. Fields.

Fires, Reconstruction, and Transformation

Throughout its long life, the Savannah Theatre has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, always rising anew. The most notable fire occurred in 1948, when much of the original building was gutted. Rather than restoring it to its original classical form, the owners chose to modernize the structure. As a result, the theater was remodeled in a striking Art Deco style, a look that it retains to this day. This mid-century design gives the theater its distinctive neon signage and streamlined aesthetic, sharply contrasting the surrounding antebellum architecture.

Despite the changes, the theatre has retained elements of its historic character and atmosphere, such as the balcony seating and original stage configuration, allowing it to continue functioning as a live performance venue.

Present-Day Use and Productions

Today, the Savannah Theatre is a vibrant venue for live musical revues, Broadway-style productions, tribute shows, and seasonal specials. Its production company stages a rotating repertoire that includes high-energy performances covering genres from Motown and classic rock to modern hits and holiday-themed spectacles.

Popular ongoing shows include:

"Savannah Live" – A fast-paced, two-hour variety show featuring a mix of pop, rock, and Broadway numbers performed by a talented cast of singers and musicians.

"Jukebox Journey" – A nostalgic musical revue that takes audiences through several decades of American music.

Holiday specials, such as “A Christmas Tradition,” are especially popular with both locals and tourists, combining music, costumes, and storytelling.

The theater offers a family-friendly environment and is well-regarded for the energy and professionalism of its performers. Audiences are often encouraged to participate, making for a lively and interactive experience.

Seating, Amenities, and Atmosphere

The Savannah Theatre has a seating capacity of around 525, with an intimate layout that ensures excellent sightlines from nearly every seat. The lobby features classic photos of past performers and shows, as well as a concession stand offering snacks and drinks. The ambiance inside is cozy, with plush seats, soft lighting, and excellent acoustics.

The theatre is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges. Restrooms are available onsite, and parking is accessible in nearby garages or on surrounding streets.

Paranormal Reputation

The Savannah Theatre is also considered one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah, a city known for its ghost lore. Staff and visitors have reported unexplained phenomena over the years—phantom footsteps, disembodied voices, flickering lights, and the presence of ghostly figures in the audience or backstage. These stories have made it a featured stop on many of Savannah’s ghost tours.

Two of the most frequently mentioned spirits are believed to be a confederate soldier and a woman in a period dress, both occasionally seen in the balcony or backstage areas. While the theatre does not officially promote its haunted status, the local lore adds a layer of mystique to its already rich history.

Location and Cultural Role

Situated on Chippewa Square, one of the most picturesque and historic of Savannah’s 22 squares, the Savannah Theatre is a central landmark for tourists exploring the city’s architectural and cultural offerings. The square is also famous as the filming location of the bench scenes in Forrest Gump.

As both a working theatre and a living monument, the Savannah Theatre bridges past and present. It continues to offer high-quality live entertainment while preserving the artistic spirit that has defined it for over 200 years.

Summary

The Savannah Theatre is more than a performance venue—it's a living piece of American theatrical history. With its roots in early 19th-century neoclassicism, its transformation through Art Deco design, and its continuous stream of live shows and community events, the theatre stands as a beloved icon of Savannah's enduring charm and cultural sophistication. Its haunted reputation, architectural legacy, and vibrant stage presence make it a must-visit for history lovers, theatregoers, and tourists alike.