“Forest Forward: The Future Is Here” explores the history of the beloved Forest Theater in South Dallas while providing a close-up look at nonprofit Forest Forward’s planned rehabilitation, which is expected to launch in Spring 2024.
The Forest Theater was built in 1949 by Karl Hoblitzelle, the developer of the Majestic, Lakewood, and Inwood theaters. At the time, Forest Theater served a predominantly Jewish population who resided in South Dallas.
After segregation and redlining took its toll in the 1950s, the Forest Theater eventually transitioned to serve the growing African American population. A mecca of art, music and community gatherings, the treasured hub welcomed legendary artists such as Tina Turner, Prince, B.B. King and Gladys Knight.
The Forest Theater was acquired in 2017 by Forest Forward. The nonprofit’s mission is to not only restore the iconic landmark for future generations but to renew the area through cradle-to-college education pathways with Dallas ISD and the Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy, employment opportunities and mixed-income housing developments.
The exhibition will remain on view in the NorthCourt (on Level One between Nordstrom and Macy’s) through October 17.
“Forest Forward: The Future Is Here” explores the history of the beloved Forest Theater in South Dallas while providing a close-up look at nonprofit Forest Forward’s planned rehabilitation, which is expected to launch in Spring 2024.
The Forest Theater was built in 1949 by Karl Hoblitzelle, the developer of the Majestic, Lakewood, and Inwood theaters. At the time, Forest Theater served a predominantly Jewish population who resided in South Dallas.
After segregation and redlining took its toll in the 1950s, the Forest Theater eventually transitioned to serve the growing African American population. A mecca of art, music and community gatherings, the treasured hub welcomed legendary artists such as Tina Turner, Prince, B.B. King and Gladys Knight.
The Forest Theater was acquired in 2017 by Forest Forward. The nonprofit’s mission is to not only restore the iconic landmark for future generations but to renew the area through cradle-to-college education pathways with Dallas ISD and the Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy, employment opportunities and mixed-income housing developments.
The exhibition will remain on view in the NorthCourt (on Level One between Nordstrom and Macy’s) through October 17.
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Admission is free.
