American Theater
About
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.
- Woman-owned
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?
What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during peak season?
What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?
Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?
What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during peak season?
What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during off-peak season?
Which of the following are included in starting site fee?
Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?
What is the starting price per person for bar service?
Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?
What is the maximum capacity of your venue?
What is the minimum number of guests required to book your venue?
How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?
Describe your venue:
What kind of settings are available?
Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?
What event services do you offer?
What catering services do you offer?
What bar services do you provide?
What event items are available?
What food and beverage items are available?
What transportation and access is available?
What months are included in your peak season?
What months are included in your off-peak season?
6 Reviews
Write a review15 User photos
Map

American Theater frequently asked questions
What items and services are included in the starting site fee at American Theater?
- Chairs
- Flatware
- Tables
At American Theater, what items and services related to wedding catering are included in the cost?
- Cake Cutting
- Dessert
- Server(s)
- Wedding Cake
At American Theater, what does the bar service starting price include?
- Bartender(s)
- House Beer
- Open Bar
What are the most important characteristics of American Theater in terms of venue type, style and location?
- Ballroom
- Historic Building
What kind of indoor/outdoor options are available at American Theater for wedding events?
- Indoor
What kind of wedding events does American Theater offer?
- Ceremony
- Reception
- Bridal Shower
- Engagement Party
- Elopements
- Rehearsal Dinner
What services does American Theater offer for wedding events?
- Bar Services
- Cake
- Catering Services
- Event Planner
- Event Rentals
- Get Ready Rooms
- Lighting / Sound
- Outside Vendors
- Wifi
What furniture and decorations does American Theater have available for wedding events?
- Audio Equipment
- Chairs
- Dance Floor
- Lighting
- Tables
What percentage of users recommend American Theater and which are the most valued aspects of their wedding services?