Douglass Theatre celebrates 105 years of culture, history, and black excellence in Macon

One of Macon’s most treasured historic landmarks is marking a major milestone this February.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Douglass Theatre is celebrating its 105th anniversary with a month-long lineup of events honoring its rich legacy in entertainment, culture, and community impact.

Founded in 1921 by Macon native Charles H. Douglass and his wife Fannie Appling Douglass, the theatre was created as a performance space for Black artists during segregation. Over the decades, it has become a cultural cornerstone in Central Georgia, welcoming legendary performers such as Otis Redding, Ma Rainey, Cab Calloway, Bessie Smith, and James Brown.

The anniversary celebration runs from February 6 through February 27 and features a variety of performances and community events during Black History Month. Highlights include the annual Jimmy Mills Jr. Heritage Concert, a tribute to Black comedy legends, a Homecoming Week celebration, and a Black History Month film series showing Waiting to Exhale, Stomp the Yard, and the documentary Fannie Lou Hamer’s America.

Homecoming Week, scheduled for February 14 through February 22, serves as a centerpiece of the celebration. Events include a concert on February 14, a Cake & Wine toast and sneak preview of an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority exhibit on February 17, an HBCU mixer on February 20, and a Greek Step & Stroll on February 22.

Douglass Theatre Executive Director Dr. Shelton Land says the 105-year milestone represents resilience, community pride, and a continued commitment to staying relevant.

“Turning 105 years is huge for this cultural touchstone,” Land said. “We encourage people to reflect with us as we celebrate the longstanding history of the venue and the resilience of its founders.”

The Douglass Theatre has remained a symbol of Black achievement and artistic excellence for more than a century, continuing to offer programming that connects the past with the present.

For more information on events and tickets, visit the Douglass Theatre website or call 478-742-2000.