With all the music history, from Memphis on the western border, Nashville in the north central part, and the Appalachian Mountains forming the eastern border of the state of Tennessee, Knoxville is fortunate to have "The Official State Theatre of Tennessee." The Tennessee Theatre opened October 1, 1928 with almost 2,000 seats. From the Czechoslovakian crystals in the French-style chandeliers to the overall Spanish-Moorish style, the Chicago architects, Graven & Mayger, incorporated a hodgepodge of design elements from all parts of the world. The overall effect is visually stunning and provides an intimate setting in which to see some of the most acclaimed performers from around the world. The theatre underwent a complete renovation lasting from June 2003 until its grand reopening on January 14, 2005. The renovations cost about $25.5 million and was funded through both public and private donations. Included in the renovation was the Wurlitzer which originally cost $50,000 and was part of the theatre when it originally opened. This magnificent pipe organ, termed "The Princess Elenoir, the Jewel of the Great Smoky Mountains" has its very pipes embedded in the theater's walls!

These places, like The Tennessee Theatre which is now a part of the National Register of Historic Places, are more than just old buildings that receive passing glances. These places hold history in the very plaster of their walls. The necessity to preserve historically significant places is an imperative. In this time which sees many of our nation's cultural and historical cathedrals succumb to the brute force of the wrecking ball or explosives, it has never been more important for grassroots efforts to say no! No to the wrecking balls! We live in an enormous country with lots of space. There is no need to demolish these living witnesses to history. If you need a new theatre or ball field, why not renovate those that are already there? The cost to renovate and modernize might be high, but so is the cost of history relegated only to fading photos and memories. While I have always been an advocate of progress, progress does not have to be built on the ruins of history. Progress can be a natural outgrowth of the history's foundation. I do not believe that progress and history are antithetical. I hope you enjoy the picture below that are thanks to The Historic Tennessee Theatre. While you look at the photos, think of the historic places in your town, with the faded murals and stained glass windows that spurred your imagination as a child.

About the Author

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