Majestic Theatre, San Antonio (must see)

The Majestic Theatre, located on E. Houston Street in downtown San Antonio, stands as a remarkable emblem of theatrical and architectural grandeur. Designed by John Eberson for Karl Hoblitzelle’s Interstate Theatres in 1929, it is the oldest and largest atmospheric theatre in San Antonio, seating 2,264 patrons. This masterpiece not only served as the first fully air-conditioned theatre in Texas but also represented cutting-edge innovation with state-of-the-art sound and projection equipment.

In its heyday, the Majestic Theatre was the largest in Texas and second only to Atlanta's Fox Theatre in the United States. Its opening on June 14, 1929, symbolized the city’s progressiveness, coinciding with San Antonio’s “Prosperity Month.” Attendees flocked to the theatre's grand opening, dressed in fur coats despite the summer heat, to enjoy the luxurious cool air and dazzling performances, including musical films, live acts, and star entertainers like Jimmie Rodgers.

The Majestic’s design reflects Eberson's signature atmospheric style. A vivid blue ceiling mimics a starlit evening sky, enhanced by a cloud projector and star-like bulbs positioned to match the actual constellations of the night it opened, as guided by the National Geographic Society. The opulent décor includes Greek, Roman, and Renaissance sculptures, Spanish-imported cypress trees, and intricate Baroque carvings. Unique features like an 18-foot-tall vertical sign with a strutting peacock and an aquarium-filled lobby exemplify its charm.

Despite challenges during the Great Depression, the Majestic flourished as a haven for entertainment, offering a mix of films and live acts through the mid-20th century. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1993 and remains a Texas Historic Landmark, celebrated for its ornate architecture and cultural significance.

Today, the Majestic Theatre continues to captivate audiences with Broadway productions, concerts, and comedy shows, maintaining its legacy as San Antonio’s premier performing arts venue and a cherished symbol of historical and cultural excellence.