Charline McCombs Empire Theatre

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the oldest theater in San Antonio, Texas?

The oldest theater in San Antonio, Texas, is the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre. Originally opened in 1913 as the Empire Theatre, it has played a significant role in the city's cultural and entertainment landscape for over a century. Located in downtown San Antonio, the Empire Theatre has hosted vaudeville shows, silent films, and a variety of live performances. After a period of decline, it was beautifully restored and reopened in 1998, thanks to the support of philanthropist Charline McCombs. Today, the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre is a historic landmark and continues to be a popular venue for concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical events, making it a must-visit destination for arts and culture enthusiasts in San Antonio.

Who owns the Majestic Theatre in San Antonio?

The Majestic Theatre in San Antonio is owned by the City of San Antonio. This historic venue, which opened its doors in 1929, is operated by the nonprofit organization Las Casas Foundation in partnership with the city. The Majestic Theatre is a crown jewel of downtown San Antonio, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. It serves as the home of many major concerts, Broadway productions, and special events, attracting visitors from across Texas and beyond. Managed as part of the larger Majestic & Empire Theatres complex, the Majestic Theatre continues to play a vital role in the city's performing arts scene, hosting world-class entertainment in a beautifully preserved historic setting.

Where are concerts in San Antonio?

Concerts in San Antonio take place at a wide variety of venues throughout the city, catering to diverse musical tastes and performance styles. Major concert venues include the AT&T Center, which hosts large-scale tours and arena acts; the Majestic Theatre and Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, both located downtown and known for their intimate, historic settings; and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, a modern venue for classical, pop, and crossover performances. Additionally, the Aztec Theatre offers a unique, atmospheric space for live music events. Outdoor concerts are frequently held at the Sunken Garden Theater and the Freeman Coliseum. San Antonio's vibrant live music scene ensures there's always a concert to enjoy, from national headliners to local talent.

What theater was built in 1926 near the river walk in San Antonio, TX and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places?

The theater built in 1926 near the River Walk in San Antonio, TX, and listed in the National Register of Historic Places is the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre. Originally constructed as the Empire Theatre, this historic venue is located just steps from the famous San Antonio River Walk. It was designed by the renowned architect Mauran, Russell & Crowell and opened to great acclaim, quickly becoming a cultural landmark in the city. The Empire Theatre is celebrated for its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and its legacy as a premier destination for vaudeville, silent films, and live performances. Its restoration and renaming in honor of Charline McCombs have secured its place as a treasured venue for arts and entertainment in San Antonio.