The transformation of the Riverside Fox Performing Arts Center, one of the city’s most revered landmarks, is almost complete. On May 3, 2007, after more than 1,300 visitors took one final tour through the auditorium, the former Fox Theater closed its doors. This historic structure will be revitalized as a state-of-the-art performing arts center for Riverside and the Inland Empire.

Rehabilitation of the theater will occur on all three levels of the Fox Performing Arts Center and will include an expanded stage, new stage floor, new seats, modern lighting, a restored decorative ceiling and a refurbished lobby. Once completed, the Fox will boast a 1,640-seat performing arts theater that captures the original grandeur of the building with updated amenities for patron enjoyment and comfort.

Completed in 1929, the Fox Theater was host to early silent movies and premiered a sneak preview of Gone with the Wind in 1939. It is a grand Mission Revival building in the heart of downtown Riverside and will become the centerpiece of Riverside’s Arts & Culture initiative as a regional performing arts facility.

The soon to be completed rehabilitation paves the way for the introduction of national touring Broadway shows. Help us celebrate this historic endeavor by becoming a season ticket holder to the inaugural Broadway season. Destined to become the crown jewel of downtown Riverside, the Fox Performing Arts Center will attract visitors to the area, enhance the artistic offerings of the community, and contribute to the local economy now and for generations to come.