The Earle Theatre and Old-Time Music Heritage Hall

A Celebration of Mount Airy’s Cultural Legacy

Nestled in the heart of Mount Airy, North Carolina, the Earle Theatre and Heritage Hall stand as testaments to the town’s rich cultural history. The Earle Theatre, a beautifully restored art deco gem, has been entertaining audiences since the 1930s, while Heritage Hall, located within the theater complex, pays homage to the roots of old-time music that has shaped the region’s artistic identity. Together, these two venues offer a unique glimpse into the past and celebrate the enduring legacy of Mount Airy’s music and entertainment scene.

The Story of the Earle Theatre

The Earle Theatre first opened its doors in 1938, during the golden age of cinema. Named after its original owner, Earl Q. Benbow, the theater quickly became a beloved landmark in Mount Airy, drawing in locals and visitors alike with its stunning architecture and exciting lineup of films and live performances.

Designed by architect Clyde R. Shugart, the Earle Theatre boasted a sleek art deco style, with a gleaming white façade, striking geometric patterns, and a towering vertical sign that lit up the night sky. Inside, the theater was equally impressive, with plush seating, elegant décor, and state-of-the-art technology, including a cutting-edge sound system and projection equipment.

Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the Earle Theatre thrived as a center of entertainment in Mount Airy. In addition to showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters, the theater also hosted a variety of live events, including talent shows, beauty pageants, and musical performances. Many locals still fondly recall spending their weekends at the Earle, catching a matinee or a double feature with friends and family.

However, like many small-town theaters, the Earle faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century. The rise of television and the decline of downtown shopping districts took a toll on ticket sales, and the theater struggled to stay afloat. In the 1970s, the Earle was forced to close its doors, and the once-grand building fell into disrepair.

Revival and Restoration

In the 1980s, a group of concerned citizens and local preservationists recognized the importance of saving the Earle Theatre. They formed the Surry Arts Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the arts in Surry County. The council began a fundraising campaign to restore the theater, and in 1985, after years of hard work and community support, the Earle Theatre reopened its doors to the public.

The restoration process was a labor of love, with volunteers and professionals working tirelessly to bring the theater back to its former glory. They repaired the roof, restored the original art deco features, and updated the technology to meet modern standards. Today, the Earle Theatre stands as a shining example of historic preservation and community resilience.

Old-Time Music at Heritage Hall

While the Earle Theatre is a celebration of Mount Airy’s entertainment history, Heritage Hall pays tribute to the town’s musical roots. Located within the theater complex, Heritage Hall is a museum and performance space dedicated to preserving and promoting the old-time music that has shaped the region’s cultural identity for generations.

Old-time music, also known as traditional Appalachian music, is a genre that originated in the rural communities of the American South. Characterized by its use of acoustic instruments, such as fiddles, banjos, and guitars, old-time music is known for its lively dance tunes, haunting ballads, and heartfelt storytelling.

Mount Airy has a particularly strong connection to old-time music, thanks in part to the influence of local musicians like Tommy Jarrell and Fred Cockerham. These legendary performers helped to popularize the genre and inspire new generations of musicians to carry on the tradition.

Heritage Hall honors this legacy by showcasing a collection of vintage instruments, photographs, and other memorabilia related to old-time music. Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of the genre, learn about famous musicians from the region, and even try their hand at playing a tune on a replica instrument.

In addition to its museum exhibits, Heritage Hall also serves as a performance venue for old-time musicians. The hall hosts regular concerts, jam sessions, and workshops, providing a space for musicians to gather, share their talents, and pass on their knowledge to younger generations. These events attract visitors from around the world, who come to experience the authentic sounds and spirit of traditional Appalachian music.

The Earle Theatre Today

Today, the Earle Theatre continues to serve as a vital center of entertainment and culture in Mount Airy. The theater hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year, including classic films, live performances, and community gatherings.

One of the most popular events at the Earle is the weekly WPAQ Merry-Go-Round radio show. This live broadcast, which airs every Saturday from the theater stage, features performances by local and regional old-time musicians, as well as comedy skits and other entertainment. The show has been a staple of Mount Airy’s cultural scene since 1948 and continues to draw in fans of all ages. You may view a recent archived show here on YouTube.

The Earle Theatre also hosts special events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Mount Airy Fiddlers Convention and the Mayberry Days celebration. These events bring together musicians, fans, and visitors from around the world to celebrate the town’s unique cultural heritage.

Education and Community Outreach

In addition to its role as an entertainment venue, the Earle Theatre and Heritage Hall also serve as important educational resources for the community. The Surry Arts Council offers a variety of programs and workshops designed to promote the arts and encourage creativity among local youth and adults.

One of the most successful programs is the Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) program, which teaches children how to play traditional old-time music on instruments like the fiddle, banjo, and guitar. The program not only helps to preserve the region’s musical heritage but also provides young people with valuable skills and a sense of pride in their cultural roots.

The Surry Arts Council also partners with local schools and community organizations to bring the arts to underserved populations. Through outreach programs and special events, the council works to ensure that everyone in the community has access to the transformative power of music, theater, and other art forms.

In Summary

The Earle Theatre and Heritage Hall are more than just buildings; they are living testaments to the enduring spirit and cultural legacy of Mount Airy, North Carolina. Through their commitment to historic preservation, artistic expression, and community engagement, these institutions play a vital role in shaping the town’s identity and ensuring that its unique heritage is passed on to future generations.

Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema, old-time music, or simply appreciate the power of the arts to bring people together, a visit to the Earle Theatre and Heritage Hall is an unforgettable experience. So the next time you find yourself in Mount Airy, be sure to stop by and discover the magic for yourself. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the town’s rich history and a renewed sense of the importance of preserving and celebrating our cultural treasures.

Earle Theatre and Old-Time Music Heritage Hall

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
  • Saturday: Includes the WPAQ Merry-Go-Round event and exhibits from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM

These hours reflect the general opening times for the exhibit space within the Heritage Hall, with special weekend activities enriching the visitor experience. For any specific events or extended hours, it’s a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly.