The restoration of OKC’s historic Jewel Theater

Photo courtesy: © thejewelon4th.org

In 2022, Oklahoma City’s historic Jewel Theater announced plans for a restoration and reconstruction project, setting the stage for its future reopening. Funded by the Mellon Foundation, the theater received a $1 million grant to preserve its rich cultural heritage and continue its legacy of community engagement and programming.

Arthur Hurst, who acquired the theater in the 1970s, has ambitious plans to restore the Jewel Theater, with a focus on education, history, the arts and strengthening community ties. To ensure the community's voice is heard, the theater has conducted surveys to gather input from local organizations and businesses invested in the success of this iconic venue.

Located at 904 NE 4th St., the Jewel Theater is Oklahoma City’s last remaining historically Black theater. Founded in 1931 by Hathyel and Percy James, the Jewel was a thriving hub for over 30 years until its closure in the late 1960s. Named after the James' daughter, the building’s design features a projection room, ticket booth, office, workroom, and restrooms, embodying a modest but significant structure that once served as a cultural center during a time of segregation.

During its heyday, the Jewel Theater offered a safe, welcoming space where Black patrons could enjoy films without the restrictions of assigned seating, a rarity in segregated America. In addition to films, the James family hosted concerts, plays and other events, creating a versatile venue for entertainment and community connection.

The success of the Jewel Theater extended beyond Oklahoma City, with additional theaters established in Ardmore, Wewoka, and Amarillo, Texas. However, after Percy James retired due to health reasons in 1963 and passed away in 1965, the franchise came to an end.

Once surrounded by bustling shops, restaurants, and vibrant blues and jazz clubs, the Jewel Theater now stands as the only surviving structure from its era, symbolizing the perseverance and contributions of the Black community in Oklahoma City.

The theater’s restoration will not only safeguard its historical significance but also revitalize its role as a beacon of creativity, connection, and cultural diversity for future generations. Reopening the Jewel Theater will help ensure that Oklahoma City's Black history continues to be celebrated and shared, creating a space where the community can gather, grow, and honor its rich legacy.

For more information about The Jewel Theater visit the official site.