Initially opened in 1939, the Plaza Theatre has remained an arduous mainstay for cult, art and independent cinema within Atlanta. The eclectic theatre has a rich history that is intertwined with Atlanta’s identity.
The perception of the Plaza Theatre by Atlanta locals is as colorful and diverse as the history of the theatre itself. “This is my first time, it looks pretty cool though,” said Atlanta local Anthony Sano.
The Plaza Theatre serves as more than just a theatre for Atlanta locals. Many Atlantans and visitors to the city are drawn to the emblematic neon sign which spells out a bright stylized PLAZA THEATRE as they pass by. The distinct Art Deco style of the neon logo and design of the Plaza Theatre has an anachronistic energy when seen in juxtaposition to Atlanta today. The design of the space is representative of the long rich history the Plaza Theatre has in the Atlanta community.
The Plaza Theatre was originally designed by Atlanta native George Bond. It was created to serve as both a cinema and live theatre space for the local community. The Plaza Theatre has occupied a multitude of roles in its time. Some of these roles the Plaza Theatre filled were more controversial than others.
Plaza Theatre Adult Films by Jeterga
In the 1970s, the Plaza Theatre became an adult theatre due to decreased profits. Burlesque performances were offered in the Plaza Theatre as well. Although this is no longer the case in present times, the Plaza Theatre still fufills a unique role in the community. The independent theatre has returned to its roots serving as a meeting ground for avant-garde cinephiles and theatre enthusiasts alike.
The Plaza Theatre showcases the eccentric LGBTQ+ cult classic film “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” every Friday at midnight. This weekly theatric showing is known to locals as the “Lips Down On Dixie”. The musical film follows a young lost couple who seek refuge in a secluded home in the woods. The ominous home is owned by the chaotic, hedonistic and gender expansive Dr. Frank-N-Furter. The film is filled with music, dancing, theatrics and chaos.
Along with the showing of the film, there is a live interactive volunteer cast that acts out the scenes in person during the film. “I love seeing Rocky Horror here, it’s always exciting seeing people dressed up in character for the show,” said Atlanta local Corbin McKinney. The weekly showing has become a both a safe space and gathering place for local members of the LGBTQ+ community in Atlanta.
Plaza Theatre The Interview by Erik Lesser
In 2014, the Plaza Theatre decided to showcase the film The Interview by Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg. At the time, the film was not being shown in mainstream commercial theatres. This was due to terrorist threats the distributing company Sony Pictures Entertainment received because of the film’s perceived controversial content. The threats were in response to the film’s portrayal of North Korean leader Kim Jung Un being killed. The showing of this film was a statement by Plaza Theatre and other independent theatres. The Plaza Theatre’s stance was a deliberate statement in direct opposition to coercive censorship.
Plaza Theatre Interior by Plaza Theatre Foundation
Today, the Plaza Theatre is more organized. The theatre has been updated while still maintaining the heart of the space that is familiar to locals. This was made possible in part by Michael Furlinger and Chris Escobar, who spearheaded initiatives to improve the Plaza Theatre. Some of these changes and goals include acquiring a liquor license, donating profits to the Film Society, expanding the theatre seating and improving and maintaining the historic design of the space. The theatre’s historical place in the community as Atlanta’s only independent movie theatre was also secured during this time. The Plaza Theatre was designated protected status as a historic landmark in 2017.
Atlanta Film Festival Plaza Theatre by Atlanta Film Festival
The Plaza Theatre also serves as the center stage for the annual Atlanta Film Festival. This was accomplished due to Escobar’s efforts to reinvigorate the Plaza Theatre. Aside from being the current owner of the Plaza Theatre, Escobar is also the executive director of the Atlanta Film Society, which curates the Atlanta Film Festival. These changes have helped uplift the Plaza Theatre’s image and purpose by making it an integral space to the independent film community of Atlanta.
Despite the Plaza Theatre’s many roles over time, it has consistently been Atlanta’s home for independent theatre. Whether it was making statements, showing adult films, burlesque, arthouse, indie or cult films the Plaza Theatre has consistently been an independent space. It has continuously provided a space for ideas and community to flourish outside of the mainstream in Atlanta. For more information about the Atlanta Plaza Theatre and the Atlanta community’s goals for the venue, visit the Plaza Theatre Foundation’s website.