American Theater

Opened in 1942 as Charleston’s premiere movie house, The American Theater’s roots are regal Art-Deco architecture and timeless Hollywood glamour. In fact, it played a critical role as the first date location in Allie + Noah's love story in The Notebook!

Today, The American is a stylish and sophisticated event venue, worthy of red carpets and dazzling marquees. Framed faces from Hollywood’s Golden Age and vintage movie posters recall this National Historic Landmark’s early days. A luxurious Grand Ballroom with handmade milk-glass chandeliers is a stunning set for life’s great scenes.

Conveniently located on Upper King Street in the heart of Downtown Charleston, the American Theater provides the perfect setting for your welcome party, reception, or after party! For your big day, PPHG not only offers a beautiful venue backdrop, we also provide full-service catering, bar service, and exquisite wedding cakes and custom confections.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Elegant ballroom, complete with entertainment stage
• Stunning marquee overlooking King Street, customizable for your big day!
• Tables, chairs, and select serviceware for up to 150 guests included in rental
• Cinema with stadium seating for private film screenings
• In-house audio visual equipment and wireless microphones
• Expansive lobby and concessions area, ideal for registration, welcome information, and pre-event festivities
• Intimate lounge with private bar, presentation screen, and projector (a great space for getting ready the day-of!)
• Handicap accessible

HISTORY

Named in honor of our country's servicemen and women, the American Theater opened on September 19, 1942, as Downtown Charleston's premier movie house. Following the decline in theaters across the country, the American Theater eventually sat vacant for 20 years. But in 1997 when the vacant building had been all but forgotten, it was brought back to its former glory after being purchased and fully restored by the Patrick family. The restoration of the American Theater spearheaded the revitalization of Upper King Street, helping create what would become the bustling area of Downtown Charleston we all know today.

Every September 19th, PPHG celebrates the birthday of a building that keeps on giving. Leaving a profound legacy of preservation and restoration, the Patrick family sits at the helm of an effort in resurgence and development on Upper King Street, continuing to believe in the promise of a once-forgotten neighborhood.