Walk into the Majestic Theatre Dallas and you’ll feel like you’re going back to a time when theatres were meant to impress – and the Majestic certainly does!
Renovated in 1976, the theatre has a Renaissance Baroque exterior (arrive early, so you can take time to appreciate the Neon lights with the Majestic’s name in glowing red and yellow).
The interior is especially breathtaking. Imagine 23K gold leaf surrounding you at every turn, embellishing the decorative accents and mouldings.
The update was completed with such historical accuracy that it was named to the National Register of Historic Places. It took 7 years to complete the renovation, allowing the Majestic to be re-opened in 1983.
The gorgeous architecture and details would be reason enough for you to visit the Majestic. The special performances, from musicals to guest performers, are even more spectacular in this special setting.
Having been among the first theatres to show talkies, the Majestic still has showings of movies today, most presented with 35 mm film, rarely seen in modern movie theatres. You won’t want to miss catching a flick in what is claimed to be the oldest, family-owned movie theatre in the United States.
The movies shown are family oriented, particularly suited to kids and pre-teens (if you can get them to stop looking at the theatre’s details long enough to keep their eyes on the screen). You can rest assured that your kids will see only family approved films at The Majestic.
If you want to see a flick, the theatre opens at 7:30 pm for movies, with the box office opening 90 minutes before each performance. Films are shown Friday through Monday, so be sure to plan around the weekend if you want to drop by.
In addition to the historic setting, concession prices will also make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Admission is only $5 and hot dogs are a rock bottom $1 each. Can you even remember the last time you paid $1 for anything at a movie concession stand?
The Majestic also serves as a showplace for the performing arts, although its roots go all the way back to the Vaudeville era. Bob Hope, Mae West and even Houdini performed there. You can almost feel their presence there today but in an updated space with better acoustics, seating, and lighting.
Instead of vaudeville, today’s notable performers have included Daniel Tosh, Eddie Izzard, the Dallas Black Theatre, the Moscow Ballet and seasonal musicals. Everyone who has been or is about to become a star is reputed to have performed at the Majestic Theatre.
While there is no official dress code, plan to wear whatever seems appropriate for the event. You can come in jeans and t-shirts for movies but may want to dress in business casual for ballet performances.
Parking is conveniently located across the street from the theatre. Valet parking is also available for $20 per vehicle and does close 45 minutes after the end of each performance. Tickets can be bought ahead of time.
The theatre is fully handicapped-accessible with barrier free walkways. Wheelchairs are available but are limited in number so if one is needed, it might be wise to bring yours along and not take a chance. Infra-red listening systems are also on hand if you or a family member has hearing impairments. It is best to arrive 30 minutes before any film or performance to be sure to get a seat.
Since the Majestic Theatre is on the edge of downtown Dallas, it is easily reached with the DART light rail, conveniently located just a short distance from the theatre. The building is also close to any of the downtown restaurants and attractions.
The Majestic is located at 1925 Elm Street, Suite 300. More information can be obtained by calling (214) 880-0137.
Whether you remember the early days of movies or not, you won’t want to miss a chance to revisit this historic theatre in Dallas, taking a break from the modern bustle of today and relaxing in a gorgeous gem of a building from the days of early vaudeville and movies.
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