Non-Profit Highlight: Roxy Regional Theatre
The Roxy Regional Theatre, renowned for its entertainment and educational opportunities, was once a movie theatre during the 1900s. What makes the Roxy Regional Theatre into what it is today?
Early History
Originally called The Lillian during the early 1900s, it was the first movie theatre in Clarksville, TN, and it was the hub for local entertainment. In 1915, the Lillian was rebuilt after a fire and entertained patrons with silent pictures. During the Great Depression, the Lillian went “dark;” and then with the arrival of Fort Campbell, the Lillian was renamed the Roxy.
After another fire destroyed the venue in 1945, the Roxy was completely rebuilt. For nearly 40 years, The Roxy entertained Clarksvillians with first-run movies through the 1980s. Then, after sitting vacant for three years, Tom Thayer and John McDonald revitalized the historic theater, re-opening it on November 3, 1983, as a live stage performance theatre.
What is the Roxy Regional Theatre?
The Roxy Regional Theatre provides entertainment to the Clarksville community through live theatre performances. In 1995, a professional company was created due to the demand for Shakespeare, other classics, school curriculum-based productions, and holiday shows. The Roxy Regional School of the Arts was also established in 1995. The school offers teens extensive training in modern theatre, and provides them with an opportunity to work directly with professionals in the industry.
How can you support the Roxy Regional Theatre?
When supporting the arts there is something everyone can do. There are many great opportunities available to support the Roxy Regional Theatre!
- Usher Volunteers
- Ushers are needed to seat patrons at performances. A nice perk for this position includes viewing the show for free, once all patrons are seated. Email the Roxy’s box office for availability at roxy@roxyregionaltheatre.org.
- Internships
- A limited number of internships are available for high school and college students who have completed one year at the Roxy Regional School of the Arts. These internships can broaden the technical knowledge of the theatre.
- Donate
- The Roxy Regional Theatre is a tax-exempt organization. Your gift is fully tax-deductible as a charitable contribution to the extent allowed by law. Learn more about donations here.
- Auditions
- Auditions are held periodically throughout the year, locally and out of town. Refer to their website for exact dates and times.
- Roxy School of the Arts
- Intended for children ages 10 to 18, these young theatre enthusiasts learn various acting techniques and present a junior production on the mainstage as part of the regular season. Learn more about Roxy School of the Arts here.
- Advertisement Opportunities
- Opportunities are available in the program booklets that are distributed to over 50,000 at their performances annually. Learn more about advertising here.
Due to current business restrictions, some of these opportunities may be unavailable at this time.*