The Aztec Theatre, a San Antonio landmark, is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The theatre first opened its doors on June 4, 1926, and has since undergone significant transformations to become the live music venue it is today.
A Rich History
Originally designed by the firm Meyer and Holler in the 1920s, the Aztec Theatre was built as a motion picture palace with a 3,000-person capacity. Its extravagant, Mayan-themed sculptures and carvings were inspired by Mesoamerican ruins. Over the years, the theatre has changed hands and purposes, including a stint as a triplex in the 1970s and 1980s.
In 2013, the Aztec Theatre was transformed into a live music venue, with a reduced capacity of 1,645 people. Despite the changes, the theatre’s historic charm has been preserved, with its original facade and proscenium still intact. The old 3-manual, 11-rank Robert Morton theatre organ is now displayed in the VIP area as a reminder of its past.
New Developments
To mark its centennial, the Aztec Theatre is introducing new developments, including a 77-room hotel and a rooftop restaurant and bar called Zenita, which will serve Asian and Latin fusion cuisine. The hotel, affiliated with Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, is set to open in August.
Owner Sam Panchevre aims to preserve the authenticity of the River Walk while bringing more local flavor to the area. The Aztec Theatre’s transformation is part of a larger effort to revitalize the River Walk, with business owners and local leaders working together to create a vibrant and unique experience for visitors.
Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.
