Tivoli Theater to Reopen in Chattanooga by 2026

News Summary

Chattanooga’s historic Tivoli Theater is set to reopen in mid-2026 after a major renovation and expansion project, fueled by a multimillion-dollar donation. This beloved landmark will feature multiple theater spaces, enhance community arts, and create over 750 jobs in Hamilton County. Meanwhile, a digital lottery for the musical ‘HAMILTON’ tickets will commence on April 11, 2025, leading up to shows later that month.

Exciting News for Chattanooga: Tivoli Theater Set to Reopen in 2026!

Chattanooga is buzzing with anticipation as the legendary Tivoli Theater prepares to swing open its doors once again in mid-2026! This beloved cultural landmark, known for its stunning architecture and rich history, is getting a remarkable facelift, thanks in part to a generous million-dollar donation that has set the stage for an incredible restoration and expansion project.

Celebrating a New Era

This exciting journey kicked off with a “Wall Breaking” ceremony back in December, where local community members and theater supporters gathered to celebrate the expansion that will stretch into the neighboring building. And let us tell you, this isn’t just a simple makeover—this renovation is going to completely transform the Tivoli experience, providing Chattanooga residents and visitors with a variety of new options to enjoy live entertainment and films like never before!

A Space for Everyone

When the revamped Tivoli opens its doors, theater-goers will be treated to a diverse array of entertainment options. The new construction promises to introduce five different types of theater spaces! Yes, you heard that right! Among these are a state-of-the-art movie theater, handy multipurpose rooms, and cozy lounge areas perfect for relaxing before the show. The expanded facility is set to boast a whopping 16,000 seats, with the impressive memorial auditorium alone having the capacity to host up to 3,500 attendees at a time! This means that whether you’re looking for a blockbuster film, a riveting play, or a spectacular concert, the Tivoli will once again serve as the go-to spot for entertainment in town!

Job Creation Galore

The Tivoli Foundation is not just thinking about shows and seating; they are anticipating that this revitalization project will spur economic growth in the area. It’s estimated that the new theater will generate over 750 jobs in Hamilton County, which is fantastic news for the community as it continues to recover and thrive economically. Jobs in the arts and culture sector are vital, and the reopening of the Tivoli will set the stage for a vibrant local job market.

Ticketing Buzz for HAMILTON

But hold on, the excitement doesn’t end there! Before the big reopening, the Tivoli is drawing even more attention with performances of the widely adored musical “HAMILTON”. A digital lottery for tickets is set to begin on April 11, 2025, leading up to the performances scheduled for April 22 to April 27, 2025. With tickets priced at just $10 each, Hamilton fans will have a unique chance to snag a seat for this unforgettable show!

Looking Back and Forward

The Tivoli Theater has a storied history, first lighting up Chattanooga’s entertainment scene on March 19, 1921. Back then, it opened after an extensive two-year construction phase that cost nearly $1 million. The original design took inspiration from Italy’s breathtaking Tivoli Theater and featured luxurious seating that astounded attendees. In those early days, the theater hosted major events like performances from the Tivoli Symphony Orchestra, silent films, and appearances by film stars that captured the imagination of all who attended.

In continuation of the theater’s legacy, plans for a new five-story, steel-girded building adjacent to the Tivoli are in motion. This new building aims to leverage the crowds expected after the theater’s grand reopening by incorporating office spaces and retail outlets, substantially contributing to the vibrant life of downtown Chattanooga. Excavation for the building’s foundations is set to begin right away!

A Cultural Hub Reimagined

The Tivoli Theater has always been more than just a venue; it’s a pillar of the Chattanooga community, promoting the arts and playing an integral role in the region’s economic growth. As excitement builds for the reopening in 2026, you can expect a blend of nostalgia and freshness as this beloved landmark embarks on a bold new chapter.

So mark your calendars and get ready, Chattanooga! Big things are on the horizon, and the Tivoli Theater is all set to reclaim its spot as the heart and soul of entertainment in our city.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Hamilton County’s Arts Week 2025 Set to Inspire
WDOD: Celebrating a Century of Chattanooga Radio History
Chattanooga’s Music Scene Set to Expand with New Amphitheater
Theater Events in Chattanooga This Spring

Additional Resources

• Times Free Press: Tivoli Opening Spurs Development
• News Channel 9: Chattanooga’s Tivoli Theater Reveals Opening Details
• Chattanooga Pulse: Tivoli Theatre Announces Ham4Ham Lottery for Hamilton Tickets
• Local 3 News: Tivoli Restoration Project Fully Funded
• Nooga Today: Updates on Tivoli Theatre Restoration
• Wikipedia: Tivoli Theater
• Google Search: Tivoli Theater Chattanooga
• Google Scholar: Tivoli Theater Chattanooga
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tivoli Theater
• Google News: Tivoli Theater Chattanooga