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The History of the National Theater in Richmond, VA

The National Theater is located at 704 East Broad Street in Richmond, Virginia. It was built where the Rex Theater used to stand. Its current motto is "Nationally known. Locally owned."

  1. Opening

    • The National Theater opened in 1923. It was artistically acclaimed, in part because of the marble work of Ferruccio Legnaioli.

    Early Years

    • The National became a thriving part of Richmond's theater district. Acts included vaudeville, movies and the Hal Sands Dancers.

    WWII

    • World War II proved to be tough years for the National, and for theaters everywhere. The theater was sold a number of times.

    1966

    • In 1966, the National received a makeover. Murals were painted over, there was a new marquee and the name was changed to The Towne.

    1980's

    • The theater closed in 1983. It would have been demolished in 1989, except for the work of the Historic Richmond Foundation.

    Present Day

    • In February, 2008, the National reopened as a concert venue. It holds 1,500 patrons. The renovation cost an estimated $15 million.

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