The Historic Bama Theatre

The Bama Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa, is one of the city’s most cherished historic landmarks. Constructed in 1937–1938 during the New Deal era, the theatre was a joint effort between the City of Tuscaloosa and the federal Public Works Administration. Built on the former site of City Hall and the municipal jail, the $200,000 project was Tuscaloosa’s first fully air-conditioned public building. Designed by Birmingham architect David O. Whilldin in the sleek “PWA Moderne” style, the theatre was part of a combined complex that also housed the city’s municipal offices.

The Bama Theatre officially opened its doors on April 12, 1938, with a festive parade featuring Disney characters and the University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band. That evening, guests gathered to watch Bringing Up Baby, starring Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant.