Lucas Theatre For the Arts

The Lucas Theatre for the Arts is defined by its prominent marquee that lights up Abercorn Street, drawing the eye toward a grand Spanish Baroque Revival facade. Opened on December twenty-sixth, nineteen twenty-one, the theater was the creation of Savannah native Arthur Lucas, who intended it to be a premier amusement palace for the city. It quickly gained fame for its luxury and, in nineteen twenty-seven, it became the first public building in Savannah to feature air conditioning. During the sweltering summers, the mezzanine balcony—often called lawyers row—became a popular spot for local businessmen to nap in the cool, refrigerated air.