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After decades of neglect, the Fox Theater Oakland has emerged as one of California’s most stunning historic entertainment venues. This 3,800-seat gem at 1807 Telegraph Avenue received a $75 million restoration, changing it from a 1928 cinema palace to a 21st-century live performance venue while retaining its beautiful original elements. As the focal point of Oakland’s Uptown Arts District, the Fox now organizes more than 150 events per year, ranging from rock concerts to comedy performances, attracting over 500,000 visitors.

Architectural Splendor & Historical Significance

Original Construction (1928)

Architects: Weeks and Day (the same firm as Paramount Theatre)
Architectural style: Exotic Revival (combination of Hindu, Egyptian, and Persian).
Construction costs $3 million ($45 million today).
Janet Gaynor starred in Street Angel on its opening night in February 1928.

Key Architectural Features

The 112-foot tower features intricate terra cotta detailing.
The lobby features Persian carpet designs on marble.
Auditorium ceiling depicts a starry night sky.
Original Wurlitzer organ, still functioning.

Historical Timeline

Era	Significant Events
1928-1966	First-run movie palace
1966-1973	Church-owned sanctuary
1973-2005	Abandoned/vandalized
2009	Reopens as music venue

Main Attractions at Fox Theater

Performance Spaces & Technical Specifications

Main Auditorium

Seating capacity: 2,800 in the orchestra and 1,000 on the balcony.
Stage dimensions are 60′ broad by 40′ deep.
Acoustics: Designed by Meyer Sound Laboratories.

VIP Areas

The Fox Club (original 1928 smoking lounge)
Dressing rooms with vintage fixtures.
Green room containing backstage antiques.

Signature Attractions & Visitor Experiences

Architectural Tours

Historic preservation walkthroughs
Backstage access to dressing rooms.
Wurlitzer Organ Demonstrations

Annual Events

Event	Month	Highlights
Oakland Music Festival	September	Local artist showcase
Comedy Oakland	Monthly	Stand-up nights
Silent Film Series	Summer	Live organ accompaniment

Notable Performances

Musical Legends: Prince, Adele, and Radiohead.
Comedy Greats: Dave Chappelle, Ali Wong
Local Heroes: Too $hort and Green Day secret gigs

Restoration & Preservation Details

2005-2009 Rehabilitation

3,000 pieces of original decor were restored.
72,000 square feet of new seismic reinforcement.
The original color pallet was discovered beneath layers of paint.

Sustainable Features

LED lighting technology cut energy consumption by 40%.
Water-efficient landscaping
Public transportation incentives (BART is 2 blocks away).

Visitor Information & Amenities

Getting There

BART: 19th Street Station (three-minute walk).
Parking: 600-space garage adjacent.
Bike: 50+ racks onsite.

Concessions

Venue	Specialty	Historic Note
Fox Bar	Craft cocktails	Original 1928 counter
Popcorn Stand	Gourmet flavors	Vintage popper
Balcony Lounge	Small plates	Best acoustics

Why the Fox Theater Matters

The most intact original movie theater in East Bay.
Uptown Oakland’s rebirth is driven by economic factors.
Perfect acoustics for live music.
A living museum showcasing unique revival architecture.
Community gathering venue for various occasions.

The Fox Theater provides a unique entertainment experience, with gold leaf on Hindu deities in the lobby and loud clapping under the celestial ceiling. The theater serves as a showcase for Oakland’s past and present, bringing together local artists and global stars. Each ticket holder contributes to the city’s continuous revitalization. Whether you come to see a concert, a comedy play, or simply to admire the building, the Fox Theater will astound you with its grandeur and inspire you with its second act as Oakland’s cultural crown gem.

Cost: From $78
Phone: (510) 302-2250
Email: contact@anotherplanetent.com
Website: thefoxoakland.com
Address: Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612
Location Map: