Ruston Theater History

If you’ve traveled down North Vienna Street in Ruston, Louisiana, it’s likely you’ve seen the marquee which sits atop the city’s most famous theater: The Dixie. 

This location in downtown has been around for nearly a century, and while it’s the most iconic Ruston theater, it’s not the only one. Many venues for cinema and the performing arts have existed throughout the city’s lifespan, and it’s time to show them some love.

In this article, we’re giving an abridged history of Ruston theaters. By the end, you’ll know a little more about the various venues which have graced PeachTown and left their mark on its history.

Before we begin

Is it theatre or theater?

You can choose the term you prefer depending on which style guide you use. Theatre is common in British writing, while Theater is preferred in the US.

History of Ruston theaters

Downtown Ruston

New Astor Theater

The Dixie’s original name was New Astor Theater. Its debut in 1928 gave Ruston locals a venue for watching live concerts and silent films, and with ticket prices less than 50 cents–sometimes as low as 10–it was a hit.

Rialto

Four years after its opening (1932), New Astor Theater was renovated and updated with new decor, including a crystal chandelier that hangs in the auditorium to this day. It was also given a new name, Rialto.

Dixie Theater

The Dixie Theater Corporation of New Orleans took ownership of the Rialto in the early 1937, and after more renovations, it was reopened as Dixie Theater. The renovations included a new air conditioning system and a star to adorn the marquee. 

Over time, The Dixie suffered deterioration until it was finally renovated, once again, to preserve it as a historic landmark in Ruston theater history. With help from numerous city and financial organizations, Dixie Center for the Arts reopened the Dixie Theater in 2006 and has been its caretaker ever since.

City of Ruston

Ruston 8

On January 23, 2006, the Ruston 8, an addition to the Celebrity Theatres cinema chain, opened its doors to the public. A previous Ruston theater was shut down due to poor upkeep, so this was a welcome addition to the city’s sleight of entertainment venues. Ruston 8 offered a modernized movie-going experience, with 3d capabilities, stadium seating, and digital technology. 

Louisiana Tech University

Jack Howard Auditorium

Built in 1940, the Jack Howard Auditorium hosts many plays and performances on Louisiana Tech University’s campus. Despite its history and treasured status within the community, it’s known for being a haunted location among Ruston theater students, and many believe the hauntings are linked to the ghost of Vera Alice Paul, a former speech/English professor at the university.

Final Words

Are we missing something? Did we get the facts wrong? Please leave us a comment and let us know how we can improve. As more research is conducted and more details emerge, we’ll continue to update our abridged history of Ruston theater.