Laurel Theater, Knoxville

Located in Knoxville's Fort Sanders community, the Laurel Theater is a converted 19th-century church with a rich history. The building has been extensively renovated and now serves as a performance center and the home of Jubilee Community Arts. The National Register of Historic Places recognizes the building for its significant contribution to history.

Originally constructed as the Fort Sanders Presbyterian Church in 1898, the building was later used by the Epworth Ecumenical congregation to provide religious services for the community. Despite undergoing significant changes over the years, including a near-destruction by fire in 1982, the Laurel Theater has been restored to almost its original look. The gracious peacefulness of the old church and the spacious feel of the art center now blend in perfect harmony.

The Laurel Theater features a concert hall with exceptional acoustics and visuals, a secondary performance space, an archive of sound recordings, audio production facilities, and the organization's offices. During the concert season, the walls resound with a wide variety of traditional and acoustic music, creating an intimate atmosphere that performers highly praise.

As a cultural treasure committed to preserving and advancing the traditional music and art forms of the Southern Appalachians, the Laurel Theater continues to attract and delight visitors from all over the world. Its beautiful architecture, rich history, and dedication to traditional art forms make it a must-see destination for those interested in cultural heritage.