Liberty Theatre Marks 100 Years with Centennial Gala Celebrating Arts and Legacy

By Janell Williams

The historic Liberty Theatre will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a Centennial Gala on Friday, Apr. 11, 2025, at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center. The event, themed "The Soul of the Community," will honor the theatre’s rich legacy in the arts and African American culture while looking toward its future.

The black-tie gala will feature a night of live performances, special guest speakers, and historical tributes to the theatre’s impact over the last century. The event is organized by the Liberty Theatre’s planning committee and is expected to bring together community leaders, artists and supporters from across the region.

"I saw some of my first movies at this theatre. This place was so much more than just a theatre, though, it was a safe haven for the community," said Vice-chair of the Liberty Theater Cultural Center Advisory Board and Chair of the Liberty Theatre Centennial Celebrations Oz Roberts.

Originally opened in 1925, the Liberty Theatre was one of the premier venues for African American performers during the segregation era. Over the decades, it hosted legendary artists such as Ma Rainey, Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington, solidifying its status as a vital institution in the African American performing arts scene.

The Centennial Gala will include:

• A formal dinner with live entertainment, showcasing performances inspired by the theatre’s legacy.
• Recognition of key figures in the Liberty Theatre’s history and their contributions to the arts.
• Fundraising efforts to support the theatre’s restoration and future programming.

The event also will serve as a fundraiser, with proceeds going toward the theatre’s ongoing preservation and expansion efforts. Community members and organizations can purchase tickets or make donations to help sustain the Liberty Theatre as a center for artistic and cultural enrichment.

For more details about the Liberty Theatre Centennial Gala, including ticket purchases and sponsorship opportunities, visit the event website.