The Martin Theatre

The Martin Theatre (also known as the Martin Centre) is a historic performing arts venue and community gathering space located on Ashley Street in downtown Douglas, Georgia, United States. Originally opened in 1940 as a movie theatre, it served as a cinema for three decades, hosting films, dance performances, and the popular "Juke Box Saturday Night" events. The theatre closed as a cinema in 1970 and later fell into disuse. In 2019, local entrepreneurs Robb Hurst and Brian Norris purchased the building from the City of Douglas and began restoring it to its original Art Deco splendor. Today, The Martin is operated by Martin Centre Preservation Company, Inc., a nonprofit organization, and functions as a live music and performance venue, as well as a rental space for community events, school programs, celebrations, and gatherings. The venue is a catalyst for downtown revitalization in South Georgia, drawing visitors and supporting local economic growth. Its mission is to preserve and activate the historic space for generations to come.

The Martin Theatre, located on Ashley Street in downtown Douglas, Georgia, opened in 1940 as a movie theatre. For three decades, it served as a cinema and community entertainment hub, hosting films, dance performances, and the popular "Juke Box Saturday Night" events. The theatre closed as a cinema in 1970 and remained dormant for many years. In 2019, local entrepreneurs Robb Hurst and Brian Norris purchased the building from the City of Douglas with a vision to restore it as a cultural cornerstone for the region. Through the Martin Centre Preservation Company, Inc., a nonprofit organization, they led efforts to preserve the theatre's historic character and Art Deco architecture. The venue was reimagined as a performing arts center and community gathering space, hosting live music, theatre productions, and a variety of events. Today, The Martin continues to grow as a destination for live events and community gatherings, supporting downtown revitalization and enriching the quality of life in South Georgia.

• 2019

  Local entrepreneurs Robb Hurst and Brian Norris purchase the theatre from the City of Douglas and begin restoration.

• 1970

  The theatre closes as a cinema after three decades of operation.

• 1940

  The Martin Theatre opens as a movie theatre in downtown Douglas, Georgia.

A historic, community-owned performing arts venue and gathering place in downtown Douglas, Georgia, focused on preservation, live entertainment, and community connection.

Product categories. Live music performances · Theatre productions · Community events · Venue rentals · School events · Private celebrations

1. 1The Martin Theatre | Downtown Douglas, GAthemartintheatre.com
2. 2About — The Martin Theatrethemartintheatre.com
3. 3History — The Martin Theatrethemartintheatre.com
4. 4Martin Centre - Wikidatawikidata.org