In 2013, Georgetown was named a Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts–a recognition of the city’s rich artistic landscape ranging from downtown art galleries and diverse public art installations to cultural anchors like the Georgetown Public Library, Georgetown Art Center, and Williamson Museum. At the heart of this vibrant arts scene is the Georgetown Palace Theatre, a cultural gem that has evolved with the city for almost a century.
A STORIED STAGE
Built in 1925 as a movie house on South Austin Avenue just off the Square, the Palace originally dazzled audiences with silent films before ushering in the wonder of “talkies.” When the Palace was forced to close in 1989, a group of citizens rallied to save the community landmark by founding the Georgetown Palace Theatre nonprofit and transforming the space into a home for live theater and arts education. Today, the Palace has become what Development Director Debra Heater calls “a powerhouse of live performance,” presenting 12 shows annually alongside a robust education program and numerous special events and rentals. Its footprint now includes the Palace Playhouse, a black box theater that offers a more intimate setting for non-musical plays, and the Doug Smith Performance Center, which is dedicated to youth education programs.
Beyond entertainment, the Palace brings in 50,000 visitors and contributes an estimated $1 to $5 million annually to the local economy. Audiences often dine, shop, and explore the downtown, creating a ripple effect of support for local businesses. The theater also employs hundreds of creatives and gig workers, and in 2023, started paying its adult cast and crew a stipend – a first in Palace history. Known for its high-caliber performances, the Palace remains deeply rooted in the community. “The talent we attract is top-tier, but we still maintain our community roots. It’s accessible to everyone,” Debra says.
Perhaps the Palace’s most powerful legacy lies in the thousands of young people who have grown up on its stage. Over 6,600 students enroll in theater education programs annually, including classes, camps, Theatre for Young Audiences, inclusive Adaptive Theatre for All programs, student productions, and a Palace Performance Company. Through these programs, the Palace is building more than performers, Debra says; it is nurturing confidence, empathy, perseverance, joy, self-advocacy, and communication skills. She recalls a former student who returned to teach camp after participating in one of the education programs. “She said something that struck me to this day – she wanted to give back to ‘the Palace that helped raise me.’ And I thought that was a true testament to our program.”
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
As Georgetown grows, the Palace is growing with it–responsibly and thoughtfully–while navigating the challenges of staying relevant and fiscally sound as a nonprofit arts organization. The theater balances beloved classics with modern shows, taking a few risks each season while also expanding into live music. Its venues now host a concert series, music festival, and even a spooky Halloween-week performance with the Central Texas Philharmonic. The theater also debuted its first music festival in May, the Renegade Revival Music Fest. “We don’t want to compete with the Two Step Inn, but want to supplement it throughout the year,” Debra says, adding that the Palace hopes to attract musicians and strengthen the city’s identity as a music destination.
As the Palace nears its 100th anniversary in 2026, it plans to shine an even brighter spotlight on the talent and creativity that make this community special. The milestone will be marked by new concerts, special events, expanded community partnerships, and an annual gala supporting youth education programs. Debra shares, “As we look to 2026 and our 100-year anniversary, we will position the Palace to provide another 100 years of arts and culture to the City of Georgetown and beyond.”
Visit georgetownpalace.com to learn more about the Georgetown Palace Theatre and its upcoming shows and programs.