Mourning the loss of the Georgia Theatre

Photo by Jason Sandford

Fire struck the venerable Georgia Theatre in Athens, Ga., a few weeks back. The venue was a crucible for incredible Athens music. Bands like R.E.M. and the B-52s made the Lumpkin Street theater home. As far as I can tell, no cause of the blaze has been determined.

I only visited once, and immediately fell in love with its velvety warmth. It's remindful of so many of the old-school theaters. I wanted to go back.

It's unclear what's next, although there's been a global outpouring of support. There are all kinds of fund-raisers, and on Facebook, you can join the Georgia Theatre Phoenix Project. The theater owners vow they'll rebuild. I hope they succeed.

Comments

[UGA alum]

I can't tell you how many times I danced the night away here - anyone remember the 2-4 AM disco??

[NCDawg]

Dave Matthews Band, 311, Dayroom, Follow For Now, Allgood, Widespread Panic, Kevn Kinney, Cowboy Mouth, Pylon, Janes Addiction, Digital Underground, Johnny Quest, Ice-T... just a few of the acts I witnessed at the Georgia Theatre. I hope they rebuild. Such a tragic loss of a great venue.

[Dean]

Oh hell.

I saw Lucinda Williams, probably the most memorable performance ever at the GA Theater. Maybe 30 or 40 people there. She played an incredible set, then came back and played slide guitar until 2am.

I was present for Colonel Bruce Hampton & The Aquarium Rescue Unit's live album recording. Saw "Stop Making Sense" on a full screen there. God, the memories. A friend used to manage the theater. He would take the proceeds, himself, to the bank. He had an uzi in one hand as he strolled down to the bank.

I lived in Athens for 8 years before coming home to Western North Carolina. Interestingly, there are a lot former Athenians here now.