Archival photos were taken for the “DeLuxe Show” during renovation (1971) and the “Tribal Arts of Africa” exhibit (1973) (DeLUXE Theater Houston)
HOUSTON – There is something magical about walking into the DeLUXE Theater. Like being transported back into a time of black and white films where history was made and memories were created.
Originally established in 1941, it quickly became a cultural hub for the African American community in Houston. Despite the segregation of the era, the DeLUXE Theater provided a space where people could gather, celebrate, and enjoy the magic of cinema together until its doors closed in 1969.
After reopening in 2015, following a restoration of the location, it is now a hot spot for screenings of indie films to live performances by local artists. The DeLUXE is a beacon of creativity and expression in the heart of Houston.
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With the support of the City of Houston and a few hometown film heroes, the Houston Cinema Arts Society and the DeLUXE Theater are working to install state-of-the-art film projection at the historic DeLUXE Theater, breathing new life into the theater’s historic walls.
Justin Simien, creator of Netflix’s “Dear White People” series and acclaimed filmmaker states “I’m so proud to play a small part in the big efforts of the DeLUXE Theater to bring the cinema arts to kids in my hometown.”
This Wednesday, May 8, you can be apart of the history as the DeLUXE Theater opens its doors to raise funds for the new equipment. Cinema in Black will include a special screening of “Memory Builds the Monument” followed by an intimate conversation with film Director Isaac Yowman. There will also be trvia, bites, bubbles and a DJ.
