Dixie Center For The Arts
Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.
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"Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting" name="description"/> <meta content="Dixie, Center, Arts, Ruston, LA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.530201"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-92.637703"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?><?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting" name="description"/> <meta content="Dixie, Center, Arts, Ruston, LA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.530201"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-92.637703"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Louisiana Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Louisiana Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Louisiana</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:LAAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LAAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/louisiana/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Louisiana</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-louisiana/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-RUSTON-LA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpLouisiana" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting" name="description"/> <meta content="Dixie, Center, Arts, Ruston, LA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.530201"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-92.637703"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Louisiana Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Louisiana Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Louisiana</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:LAAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LAAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/louisiana/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Louisiana</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-louisiana/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-RUSTON-LA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting" name="description"/> <meta content="Dixie, Center, Arts, Ruston, LA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.530201"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-92.637703"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting" name="description"/> <meta content="Dixie, Center, Arts, Ruston, LA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.530201"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-92.637703"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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href="/ruston-la/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/ruston-la/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/ruston-la/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/ruston-la/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/ruston-la/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts - Ruston, LA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting" name="description"/> <meta content="Dixie, Center, Arts, Ruston, LA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Dixie Center For The Arts"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.530201"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-92.637703"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Dixie Center For The Arts</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>212 North Vienna Street</div> <div> <span>Ruston</span>, <span>LA</span> <span>71270</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.dixiecenter.org/" target="_blank">Dixie Center For The Arts</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 318-255-1450</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Dixie+Center+For+The+Arts%2C+212+North+Vienna+Street%2C+Ruston%2C+LA+71270" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission"To be the home and heart of the arts in North Central Louisiana"Our HistoryThe Dixie Center for the Arts began as the "New Astor Theatre" debuting silent films in 1928.In 1932 the theatre was sold to prominent Ruston citizen T.L. James, who oversaw renovations and the installation of the grand chandelier that resides in the theatre to this day. The theatre reopened as the "Rialto," and began showing "talkies," movies with sound, but suffered a fire in early 1933, destroying parts of the stage, seating, and the sound and stage equipment. The Rialto prevailed though, and became "North Louisiana's most magnificent show house" with completely new interior décor a few months later.In 1937 the Dixie Theatre Corporation of New Orleans took over management of the theatre and altered the front lobby to include a street-accessed box office, a confectionary shop, and a segregated entrance. The name was changed again too, this time to the "Dixie Theater."The segregated entrance was not only an indicator of heightened racial tensions over job competition throughout the Great Depression. Today most traces of this entrance and side stair have been removed, but its story remains a powerful reminder of our past, and how the theatre has evolved to invite people of all colors and creeds into its doors.1956 saw another transformation of the theatre, this time reflecting society's new obsession with futuristic technology and soon mankind's "race to the moon." These changes included the first installation of an air conditioning system, sleek metal "Comet" chairs, and the distinctive neon star above the marquee that still remains. The 1960s would see yet another remodel, before the advent of home entertainment and other newer theatre options pushed the Dixie out of the movie business in 1978.Ruston citizens continued to encourage the use of the theatre for local entertainment though, like the weekly Joe Wood's Wildwood Express band, the Dixie Jamboree, and other small plays and events, under the ownership of James C. Howard in the 1980s through the 1990s. On October 14, 1993, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a distinction held by only a few buildings in Downtown Ruston. By 1994 however, the theatre was in great disrepair, and much out-of-date with current fire and building safety code and the Fire Marshall shut it down.A group of caring locals refused to let the Dixie die so in 1996, the Dixie Center for the Arts came together for their first meeting, and began crafting a vision for the restoration of the cultural landmark. The North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) helped DCA receive their early funds with their nonprofit status, and draw up plans for the renovation of the theatre. DCA raised funds in the Ruston community for ten years, won a Rural Development Grant in 1997, and received funding from the state 1999 to aid with the theatre's restoration.In 2006 the renewed "Dixie Theatre" opened its doors to the world, with the goal of being a rallying point and home for the arts in Ruston, and north Louisiana. Now NCLAC houses its offices there, the Ruston Community Theatre players hold their annual shows there, and the building is open to rentals for concerts, meetings, and other special events. The theatre is owned by the DCA nonprofit and is used by many organizations for meetings, performances, and other special events.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/ruston-la/report/place/dixie-center-for-the-arts-ruston-la.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/ruston-la/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Ruston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/ruston-la/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-RUSTON-LA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Louisiana Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Louisiana Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Louisiana</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:LAAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LAAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/louisiana/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Louisiana</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-louisiana/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-RUSTON-LA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPLouisiana" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" 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