August 4, 2019–9:55 a.m.
NEWS RELEASE
In August of 1929, Northwest Georgians from across the region lined the sidewalks of Broad Street in droves, craning their necks in excitement to witness the grand opening of Rome Georgia’s shining jewel: the DeSoto Theatre. For most, it was the first “talkie” they would ever see.
Now it’s time to honor and recreate the thrill of that historical moment in celebration of the theatre’s 90th year. On Monday, August 5th at 5 p.m., the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation invites the public to gather in front of the theater at 530 Broad Street to recapture the image of the crowd waiting to enter the DeSoto to see “Gone with the Wind.”
The photo, published in a 1939 edition of the Rome News-Tribune, shows a crowd of hundreds eager to watch Vivian Leigh and Clark Gable’s swirling southern romance come to life on the silver screen. Therefore, hundreds of people are needed on August 5th to recreate history.
“This is a free event, and we invite as many people as possible to come and celebrate the legacy of the Historic DeSoto Theatre,” says Vice President of the HDTF Jim Powell.
“The DeSoto Theatre has touched countless lives over generations, and we want to honor that,” says HDTF Board President David Clonts. “Our grandparents watched some of the first films there. Some of us remember seeing blockbuster hits such as JAWS or Star Wars on that screen or have attended concerts. Today, many associate the DeSoto with the wonderful theatre productions that grace the stage.”
“There have been numerous great forms of visual art that have happened under the DeSoto’s roof for 90 years,” he continues. “This is a proud moment for our region, so let’s honor that as a community.”
A Celebration to Remember
The photo recreation will be followed by a “Party Like it’s 1929” reception and celebration ceremony, including some words by Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation and City of Rome officials. Locals may dress in period attire, though it’s not required, and all are welcome.
In addition, a sneak peek of the locally shot independent film, “Tate’s Hell,” written and directed by Rome International Film Festival Executive Director Seth Ingram, will be screened to celebrate the theatre’s film heritage.
Earlier in the day, historical tours of the theatre will be given by local historian Selena Tilly at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tilly has not only extensively researched the history of area theaters, but has also been instrumental in the DeSoto’s recent renovations.
More renovations are needed to restore the historic landmark that put Rome on the map many years ago.
“The purpose of the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation is to protect the integrity of the building and restore the theater to its original glory because it’s an important part of our local heritage,” says Powell. “We’re getting there, but there is still much to be done.”
Monday’s historical tours are $10 per person, with the proceeds going toward the theater’s restoration efforts. People may call Jim Powell at 706-346-3276 to reserve a tour.
