Forest Theater Reopens After $70 Million South Dallas Renovation

The Forest Theater in South Dallas resumed operations on Sunday, November 1, following a seven-year closure. The venue, which sat dormant for nearly two decades before recent interventions, reopened after a $70 million revitalization project led by the nonprofit Forest Forward. The renovation transformed the historic site into a larger cultural campus intended for community use and artistic production.

The celebration featured live performances from several local and national artists. Dallas hip-hop artist Big Tuck and gospel singer Tamela Mann appeared on stage during the block party. Erykah Badu, who operated the theater during the 2000s, provided the headline set. Local artist Da'Raja Superstar also performed, having recently signed with Cash Money Records. The night concluded with the lighting of the theater's green neon tower and marquee, a feature that had remained dark for more than 50 years.

Elizabeth Wattley, President and CEO of Forest Forward, has led the organization since 2017. An Oak Cliff native, Wattley founded the group to coordinate the restoration of the landmark. She stated that the project aims to invest in South Dallas and provide access to creative spaces for the next generation. The nonprofit partnered with community advocates and philanthropic donors to execute the plan.

The physical expansion increased the footprint of the campus to 45,000 square feet. The facility now includes a 1,000-seat concert hall and a 200-seat studio theater. Additional amenities comprise a rooftop deck, a cafe, and community gathering areas. A central component of the new design is the 13,000-square-foot Creative Education Laboratory. This space contains recording studios, podcasting facilities, and visual arts rooms designed for young creatives.

Financial backing for the project began with a $10 million gift from Dallas philanthropists Jon and Linda Halbert in 2021. Their contribution initiated the transformation process that culminated in the current reopening. The original building dates to 1949 and served as a gathering place for Black families in the area. It previously hosted performers including Prince, Tina Turner, B.B. King, and Gladys Knight.

The theater will host private trial events over the coming months to test operations. The first public entertainment season is scheduled to launch in spring 2027. Until then, the facility will focus on refining its programming and technical systems. The reopening marks the first time the venue has been active in that capacity since its initial construction.