Chattanooga’s “Jewel of the South” Is Getting Ready for Its Next Act |
A century-old downtown landmark is being restored for modern audiences while keeping its historic character center stage. |
 |
Before downtown Chattanooga had its current mix of concert halls, breweries, festivals, and riverfront events, the Tivoli Theatre was already giving the city a reason to dress up and head downtown.
The Tivoli opened in 1921 and quickly became one of Chattanooga’s grandest gathering places. Known as the “Jewel of the South,” the theater hosted silent movies, touring acts, Broadway productions, concerts, and Chattanooga Symphony & Opera performances over the decades. Visit Chattanooga describes it as a historic showplace that has entertained generations of Chattanoogans.
Part of the Tivoli’s magic is in the building itself. The theater was designed as a downtown movie palace, with the kind of ornate details, rich materials, and dramatic interior touches that made going to a show feel like a true occasion. The Library of Congress calls the Tivoli a well-preserved example of the grand palace theaters built across America in the 1920s, noting its decorative detail, marble, plaster work, and theater organ.
The Tivoli was also ahead of its time. Preservation and financing records note that it was one of the first public buildings in the South, and among the first in the country, to install air conditioning — a major luxury when the theater opened. The building was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
Now, more than a century after opening, the Tivoli is preparing for its next act. The theater has been undergoing a major renovation and expansion, with WDEF reporting the project at more than $70 million. Planned improvements include more ADA-accessible areas, additional restrooms and bars, and upgraded patron amenities.
For 423 readers, the Tivoli is more than an old theater. It is a reminder that Chattanooga’s entertainment story did not start with the newest venue or the latest festival. Some of the city’s best local stories are built into the places that have been gathering people for generations — and the Tivoli remains one of the most iconic. |