Curtains Up: Gainesville’s Historic Theaters Still Shine Bright
Celebrating the State Theater & Butterfield Stage
In the heart of Downtown Gainesville, two historic theaters continue to captivate locals and visitors alike—not just with their architecture and stories, but with the ongoing performances and events that keep their stages alive.
The State Theater and Butterfield Stage are more than just buildings—they’re beloved community landmarks, full of laughter, drama, music, and memory.
The State Theater: A Century of Storytelling
The State Theater is one of Gainesville’s longest-standing treasures, with roots tracing all the way back to 1919, when it first opened its doors as The Majestic, owned by the Harrison Brothers. Over the next two decades, the theater passed through several hands and was eventually revitalized by entrepreneur A.V. Wade.
But in 1938, tragedy struck—two devastating fires reduced the interior to ashes. Instead of letting it go, the town rallied. The theater was rebuilt, renamed the State, and became a beloved movie and event destination for decades to come.
By the 1990s, the building faced demolition. That’s when local businessman David Jones stepped in, recognizing its architectural beauty and cultural importance. After a massive three-year renovation, the State Theater reopened in December 2000, restored to its former Art Deco glory.
Since then, it has hosted everything from classic movie nights and musical tributes, to weddings, community plays, and iconic productions like Grease and The Wizard of Oz. Whether you’re planning an event or catching a show, the State Theater remains one of the most unique and cherished venues in Gainesville.
Butterfield Stage: Local Talent. Timeless Charm.
Just steps away sits the Butterfield Stage, Gainesville’s very own nonprofit community theater, founded in 1979 by Rodger Boyce, Tom Carson, and Monica Hess. Housed in the historic former Carnegie Library, the Butterfield offers an intimate setting with original charm—down to the seats repurposed from the old Cooke County Courthouse.
Butterfield Stage has spent over 40 years providing the community with live performances that inspire and entertain. It’s known for its vibrant main stage productions, youth theater camps, and programs that cultivate local talent of all ages.
This is where kids discover a love for acting, families make memories, and volunteers come together to create something truly magical. With a commitment to education and inclusion, the Butterfield is more than a theater—it’s a Gainesville institution.
Keeping Gainesville’s Arts Scene Alive
Together, the State Theater and Butterfield Stage continue to enrich Gainesville’s cultural life. They bring stories to life, showcase local talent, and offer a sense of community that only live performance can deliver.
In a time when historic buildings too often sit empty, these two theaters are alive and thriving—thanks to community support, passionate leadership, and the deep-rooted love this town has for the arts.
So whether you’re craving a classic movie night, a Broadway-style musical, or a play that makes you laugh ‘til you cry, Downtown Gainesville has a seat saved just for you.
Come experience the magic of live theater, right here in our historic square. Because in Gainesville, the show always goes on.