The Texas Theatre: Photo by Danny Fulgencio
The Texas Theatre. Photo by Randy Carlisle
Who would’ve guessed the notorious spot where we caught a presidential assassin would become one of the most exciting elements of the Dallas entertainment and art scenes?
And yet, there it is: Movies, live music, comedy, burlesque, a contemporary art gallery, a film festival and more.
Aviation Cinemas, a group of four local filmmakers, took over management of the Texas Theatre in 2010, and they just keep making it better all the time.
A crowdfunding campaign in November raised more than $50,000, and the theater bought a digital cinema projector. That opens the door to many more films. For example, the theater was one of a few around the country to show “The Interview” when it came out in December. And they’re able to screen some new remasters in that format; “Citizen Kane” is coming up in April.
The Oak Cliff Film Festival, now in its fourth year, is June 11-14. This year, the festival offers a filmmakers grant of $10,000 in cash and equipment to a Texas filmmaker with a work in progress.
The theater also hosts screenings for two other film festivals next month: the Dallas Independent Film Festival and the USA Film Festival.
Oh, and by the way, the theater also raised $2,000 to save two baby elephants.
As for date night, the Texas has something for everyone, plus delightful cocktails and local craft beer, or popcorn and a Dublin Bottling Works soda. Along with Mesa and all the new stuff coming into Jefferson Tower, it’s a veritable nightlife hotspot right here in assassination city.
Runner up: The Kessler Theater
3rd: Bar Belmont
