Attucks Theatre facts for kids
Theater in 2013
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| Address | 1010 Church Street Norfolk, Virginia United States |
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| Owner | City of Norfolk |
| Operator | City of Norfolk |
| Construction | |
| Opened | 1919 |
| Reopened | 2004 |
| Website | |
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Attucks Theatre
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1008-1012 Church St., Norfolk, Virginia |
| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | 1919 |
| Architect | Johnson, Harvey N. |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004575 |
| Significant dates | |
| Added to NRHP | September 16, 1982 |
The Attucks Theatre is a super cool historic theater in Norfolk, Virginia. It's famous for being built by African American business people in 1919. An African American architect named Harvey Johnson designed it. The theater got its name from Crispus Attucks, an African American hero. He was the first person to die for freedom in the American Revolutionary War.
When it first opened, people called the Attucks Theatre the "Apollo Theatre of the South." This was because it was a major spot for amazing Black entertainers. Many legendary performers played here. These included Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, Red Foxx, and Louis Armstrong. Local stars like Gary U.S. Bonds and Ruth Brown also performed.
Attucks Theatre: A Historic Landmark
The Attucks Theatre is a very important building. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. This means it's recognized as a special place in American history.
Bringing History Back to Life
After many years, the theater needed some love. It went through a big three-year restoration project. In 2004, the Attucks Theatre reopened its doors! This was a team effort between the City of Norfolk and the Crispus Attucks Cultural Center. Since reopening, new stars have performed there. These include Wynton Marsalis and Audra McDonald.
Where to Find the Attucks Theatre
The theater is located at Church Street and Virginia Beach Boulevard. It's close to other fun places in Norfolk. You can find it near Harbor Park, Harrison Opera House, Norfolk Scope, Wells Theatre, and Waterside. It's a great spot to visit for history and entertainment!
