Four decades years after it faced extinction, the Fox Theatre is throwing a party.
In 1974, Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford shared the White House, Maynard Jackson was mayor of Atlanta, and the Fox faced the wrecking ball. The 1929 movie palace had fallen on hard times because of declining ticket sales, poor upkeep and a changing city landscape. Then Atlantans banded together, raised $1.8 million and rescued the iconic structure. In 1976 it became a National Historic Landmark.
This 40th anniversary calls for a celebration, so on June 7, rain or shine, the Fox is having a block party. It’s free and open to the public, so consider yourself invited.
“We’re bringing the thrill of the Fox outdoors,” says Adina Erwin, the theater’s vice president and general manager, “and we invite all of Atlanta to rock the block with us and celebrate.”
Here are the particulars:
HOURS: Noon-6 p.m.
LOCATION: At the Fox. The intersection of Peachtree Street N.E. and Ponce de Leon Avenue will be closed. The main entrance will be at Peachtree Street N.E. and 3rd Street N.E.
ENTERTAINMENT: Live on two stages. The lineup includes Francine Reed, Bogey & the Viceroy, DejaBlue Grass Band, Orchestra Ma Cuba, and Tribute — A Celebration of the Allman Brothers Band.
FOOD AND DRINK: Yes.
PLUS: Kid-friendly activities and Fox Theatre tours.
PRIZES: Questions and answers on social media will lead up to the party, with winners randomly chosen to score prizes including food and drink vouchers, 40th anniversary merchandise, Fox Theatre tour vouchers and more.
MORE INFO: For details and the chance to win prizes, follow the Fox on Facebook www.fb.com/foxtheatreinstitute and through the official hashtag #FoxBlockParty.
