BRUNSWICK, Ga. – The Historic Ritz Theatre has been a centerpiece of downtown Brunswick for more than a century. Built in 1899 as an opera house, the building later became a movie theater in the 1920s.
Today, the Ritz is a hub for plays, concerts and community events — but its future wasn’t always certain.
The theater nearly closed before residents petitioned to save it. The city of Brunswick purchased and restored the building, preserving its historic character.
Heather Heath, who has served as executive director since 1999, said the Ritz is more than a venue.
“It’s great to preserve the past and make it part of the present,” Heath said.
The space has changed over the years, but its mission remains the same.
“We seat 440, there’s a balcony too. And we just have all kinds of performances and events,” Heath said.
Local artists also have a place to shine.
“As you see, we have artwork on the wall — this is by local artist Catherine Durrett. She’s pretty amazing,” Heath said.
Under the management of the Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association since 1990, the Ritz has undergone major renovations, including roof repairs and accessibility upgrades funded by SPLOST dollars.
Grants from the Fox Theatre Institute helped restore all 58 windows and the iconic marquee sign.