Charlie Chaplin appeared here in 1918 and since then this historic theater has been an important venue for entertainment in Augusta.
Go to Augusta Imperial Theatre for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. This theater has been one of Augusta’s main cultural centers for almost a century. Today, this historic venue hosts a variety of concerts, film festivals and theatrical performances. See a show by a local troop such as the Augusta Ballet or the Augusta Players.
The Augusta Imperial Theatre was originally opened in 1918 for the purpose of presenting vaudeville and photoplays. It’s now listed on the National Register as an important part of Augusta’s Broad Street Historical District. The theater has hosted celebrities like Charlie Chaplin, ballerina Anna Povlova and Leo Carrillo who is better known as Cisco Kid's partner, Poncho.
The theater is immediately recognizable by the large “Imperial” marquee that lights up its facade. Walk inside and admire its historic Edwardian style architecture. Look for the theater’s grand Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, an enormous organ installed in 1925 to accompany silent movies. It was created by the Rudolf Wurlitzer Company, then known for producing organs for some the country’s top theaters.
Settle back in one of its 853 plush velvet seats and enjoy the entertainment on stage. The theater hosts a range of events throughout the year. Check out the annual Poison Peach Film Festival, which features the work of Augusta’s local film community. You can also see a country music concert or a Broadway musical.
Go behind the scenes in a group tour. In the course of an hour, these guided tours introduce visitors to notable architectural details and access interesting parts of the theater, such as the dressing rooms and backstage area.
Buy tickets ahead of time to make sure you get a great seat at the Augusta Imperial Theatre. Purchase tickets online, in person at the box office or over the phone. Find the theater in downtown Augusta, a few blocks away from Augusta’s River Walk. Free parking is available on the street in front of the theater.
See some of the city’s most talented musicians, filmmakers and performers show off their skills at this landmark venue.
