History
The Historic Aztec Theatre
Built in 1926, the 1600-capacity Aztec Theatre is a notable example of the impressive exotic-theme motion picture palaces constructed in the United States during the economic boom of the 1920s. It is decorated with vibrantly-colored columns, sculptures, furnishings and murals, many of which are authentic reproductions of Meso-American artifacts. A massive two-ton chandelier dominates the theater lobby. The chandelier was installed the same day the stock market crashed in 1929. In the 1970s, the Aztec Theatre was divided into three screens and became known as the Aztec Triplex, which closed its doors in 1989. A quarter of a century later, the Aztec Theatre reopened as a live music venue, as it remains today.
1926
The Aztec Theatre was designed in the 1920s by the firm Meyer and Holler. The architects only designed three theaters: The Egyptian and Chinese Theatres in Los Angeles and The Aztec Theatre in San Antonio. The Aztec’s grand opening was on June 4th, 1926.
1926
The theatre was originally furnished with a 3-manual, 11-rank Robert Morton theatre organ, which can still be seen in the Warrior Room.
1927
The Aztec was originally a silent movie theatre. A year after opening, the theater showed its first talking picture, Don Juan starring John Barrymore.
1929
The two ton chandelier was installed in 1929. At its time, it was the largest chandelier in Texas. It was installed the day the stock market crashed in October 1929.
1932
On May 4th, 1932, six people were burned when a sulfur bomb, also known as a stench bomb, went off on the lower level of the theater.
1970
In the 1970s, the Aztec was divided into three auditoriums/screens and became known as the Aztec Triplex. The Triplex closed its doors in 1989.
2006
The theater was purchased in the late 1990s and underwent restoration, reopening in 2006 as Aztec on the River. This multi-sensory experience featured a lobby show, theater pre-show and special effects show downstairs on the Riverwalk level. The attraction closed in December 2007.
2009
Sitting vacant, the theatre was opened in 2009 with the introduction of a show called “San Antonio Rose Live” featuring musicians performing traditional country and gospel songs.
2013
The Aztec Theatre was purchased in 2013 and reimagined as a live entertainment venue. Live Nation took over operations in 2015.
2020
With the theatre shut down during Covid, it was time for a new addition. In 2020, the Aztec Terrace was constructed off the second floor lobby. It features a statue that was originally located on street level on Crockett Street, and overlooks the San Antonio Riverwalk.
2026
In 2026, the Aztec Theatre will celebrate its 100th anniversary. We hope you can visit to celebrate with us!