Aztec On The River in San Antonio

It was almost a century ago that the Aztec On The River in San Antonio opened its doors. On its opening night on June 4, 1926 more than six thousand people gathered to gain entrance to the theatre; unfortunately, only 3,000 ticket holders were actually admitted. The theater's owners - Robert Betrum Kelly and H.C. Woods - spent almost two million dollars to create a technological and architectural masterpiece for that day and age. Aztec On The River theatre is ornately built with gorgeous columns, stadium seating, and intricate details that went into the construction of the walls, floors, and curtains. The owners even went through great lengths to install an elegant chandelier that weighed over 2,000 pounds. It was the largest chandelier to ever be placed in a theatre and was installed in the main lobby in 1929. The theaters crown and glory was the Wurlitzer organ which was used for old silent films (the organ has had continued use over the years). The theatre consist of a lobby, mezzanine, balcony, and main theatre floor. The first performance to ever be held at the Aztec On The River was a 26 piece orchestra.

The theatre was not properly taken care of over the years and began to decline rapidly. By 1984, the theatre had become so dilapidated that it was officially closed to the public. The theatre was poised for destruction but the San Antonio Conversation Society stepped in and saved the historic theatre. The San Antonio Conservation Society is the oldest and most active preservation group in the United States and was not going to allow the Aztec On The River to be demolished. Eventually, the theatre was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989 where it could rest secure from future demolition plans.

Over the years, the theatre experience has changed dramatically. Aztec On The River is now a premier destination in San Antonio thanks to renovation projects and entertainment that is designed for a large age range of guests. Some of the theatre's most noted performances included The Phantom of the Opera, Night of the Living Dead, Intervention, and a Migrant's Masterpiece. Various festivals have also been held at the Aztec On The River. Festivals such as the Charlie Chaplin Festival, San Antonio Local Film Festival, and the San Antonio Underground Film Festival. New festivals and events are continually being planned for the visitors who attend Aztec On The River.

Aztec On The River also contains sixteen thousand feet of retail space and is home to various shopping and dining venues. There are both affordable unique gift shops as well as wine bars, and places where guests can enjoy unique and flavorful dishes located at the facility. In 2007, the Aztec On The River closed for renovations and announced a reopening date for late in the year 2009. Current owners are planning to have the theatre revamped as a live concert venue. The reorganization of Aztec On The River will add to its long history as one of San Antonio's best entertainment destinations.