The Forest Theater, a beloved cultural landmark in South Dallas, is about to shine again. After a $70 million renovation led by the nonprofit Forest Forward, the theater’s historic tower will be lit this weekend for the first time in more than 60 years.
Restoring a Community Icon
Located at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and the S.M. Wright Freeway, the Forest Theater has long served as a hub for Black artistic expression, community gatherings, and even worship services. The recent restoration aims to preserve that legacy while equipping the venue for modern performances.
“It really is iconic – it’s legendary to be able to bring this space back,” said Forest Forward CEO Elizabeth Wattley. Wattley emphasized that the project balances historic fidelity with new amenities. “We worked really hard to bring that design back, that feel back. So the black and white checkered floors, the swooping ramp, the medallions on the ramp – it’s all original.”
New Spaces and Modern Technology
The renovation adds a redesigned east lobby and a brand‑new south lobby, both intended to welcome visitors to a venue that can host live concerts, stage productions, and movies. A state‑of‑the‑art sound system is another highlight. “Filmmakers are very excited because this sound system, particularly, is designed to be heard exactly how the filmmaker wants it to be heard,” Wattley explained.
Preserving the theater’s historic character was a core goal. “We are historically designated, so everything will look like it used to look but brand new,” Wattley said. “And then you’ll see more historic features above your head.”
Celebration and Community Access
The tower’s illumination will be the centerpiece of a community celebration this weekend, offering residents a first glimpse of the restored landmark. The rooftop provides sweeping views of downtown Dallas, Fair Park, and the theater’s historic tower.
“A lot of work has led up to the day and we’re very excited to see it right at the horizon,” Wattley added. For many South Dallas residents, the theater’s revival represents years of dedication to preserving a piece of local heritage.
Looking Ahead
With the renovation nearing completion, the Forest Theater is poised to become a vibrant venue for the arts once more. Its restored spaces and upgraded technology promise to attract performers and audiences from across the Dallas area, reinforcing South Dallas’s rich cultural tapestry.
Community members are invited to attend the lighting ceremony and explore the revitalized theater as it prepares to open its doors for a new generation of events.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
