Ritz Theatre
| www.GlynnCounty.com/Ritz/ ExecutiveDirector  GoldenIslesArts org (ExecutiveDirectorGoldenIslesArtsorg) |
1530 Newcastle Street Brunswick, GA 31520 Heather Heath Phone: (912) 262-6934 |
Theatre History
Some of the mature qualities exemplified by the Ritz are the use of the ancillary space as an arts gallery, relationships with national arts organizations, and the use of the theatre as an economic driver in an underserved neighborhood. The Ritz Theatre, located within the “Old Town Brunswick” National Register historic District, was built in 1898 to house the Grand Opera House, retail establishments, and the general offices of the Brunswick and Birmingham Railroad. Originally, the Grand Opera House, a three-story Victorian building featuring ornate brick and stonework, was built for the legitimate stage. Later, it served as a theatre for vaudeville.
As motion pictures became the rage in the 1930’s, the Opera House was converted into a movie palace. To give the building a more modern art deco look, the first-story brickwork was covered with Carrara glass and an elaborate marquee with a cascading sign were added. Thus, the Grand Opera House became the Ritz Theatre.
In 1980, the City of Brunswick purchased the Ritz, and again, the theatre was modernized and substantially altered; however, the Ritz sign was left intact. Under the management of the Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association since 1989, the Ritz is returning to its roots. Recent “cosmetic surgery” has revealed parts of the original brickwork, storefronts, transoms, and glass, while live performances again grace the Ritz stage. Further restoration will offer space for artists’ studios and classes on the second and third floors. The Ritz plays host to a variety of events during the year including rentals, concerts, public forums, beauty pageants, dance recitals, and more. The lobby serves as a visual art gallery as well as an information center for tourists and the community. The Ritz Theatre was and continues to be a prominent fixture of Historic Downtown Brunswick.
Town Demographics
Incorporated: December 3, 1812 Population: 15,600 Total Area: 25.19 square mile
Brunswick, the county seat of Glynn County, was incorporated December 3, 1812. Brunswick was founded in 1771 and received its name from the King of England, George III of the House of Brunswick. Many of the street and square names reflect English heritage—Gloucester, Halifax, London, Newcastle and Prince. Downtown Brunswick is part of the Old Town National Historic District. The heart of the downtown district is historic Newcastle Street, lined with Victorian buildings, shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Brunswick’s economy traditionally relied on plantation farming. As the city did originally belong to a settler. This history can be viewed as the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, where tours portray the lifestyle of Brunswick’s original settlers.
According to the 2000 Census, the City of Brunswick had a population of 15,600 persons. Between 1990 and 2000, the city experienced a population decrease of 5.1%, compared to the state growth during this period of 26.4%.