Atlanta's Fabulous Fox Theater

The Fox Theater in Atlanta is almost always referred to as The Fabulous Fox, and there is a reason for that. It is an outrageously opulent, Art Deco masterpiece, from the star-sprinkled ceiling to the elaborate lounges, and there is no other place quite like the Fox.

The building was originally designed in the 1920's as the Yaarab Temple Shrine Mosque, headquarters of the 5,000 member Shriners organization.

Writing in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, a early visitor reported, "...a picturesque and almost disturbing grandeur beyond imagination. Visitors encounter an indoor Arabian courtyard with a sky full of flickering stars and magically drifting clouds; a spectacular striped canopy overhanging the balcony; stage curtains depicting mosques and Moorish rulers in hand sewn sequins and rhinestones." Even the broom closets and telephone booths were covered in gilt and geometric designs.

Somehow, at the Fox, all of this worked together and did not seem gaudy or tasteless.

How did the Temple Shrime Mosque become a theater? Well, all that gilding, the onion domes, minarets, and tents,  were expensive. In order to raise funds, the Shriners made an agreement with Wiliam Fox, who was at the time opening "movie palaces" across the country. He turned it into his Southern gem, but after less than three years, the Great Depression took its toll and the Fox declared bankruptcy. Throught the 30's, the theater scraped by, with the city assuming ownership. It managed to survive, and with the 40's it entered a period of prosperity which lasted through the 60's, showing movies and occasional live entertainment.

In the 70's, the growth of television and Atlanta's unbounded growth threatened the Fox once again. It was only through the efforts of  Atlanta Landmarks, Inc., a non-profit organization, and their 4-year "Save the Fox" campaign, that the building was saved and restored. Today, restoration and preservation efforts are continually carried on to keep the Fox the amazing showpiece it is.

Today, the Fox hosts over 300 events a year, from live theater to classic movies, corporate events and weddings. Events such as the Coca Cola Summer Film Festival draw large, enthusiastic crowds. 

Another draw of the Fox is the "Mighty Mo," a 4,000 pipe Moeller theatrical organ. Often, events begin with a "Sing-along" accompanied by the organ.

Tours of the Fox are highly recommended for anyone interested in historic Atlanta. Tours are offered at 10 AM Monday, Wednesday, and Thrusday, and at 10 and 11 on Saturdays. Tour rates are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students.

 SOURCE: The Fox Theater