Lyric Theatre.

The Lyric Theatre (3rd Ave N & 18th Street, Birmingham, AL) first opened its doors as a vaudeville house in 1914. The list of show business legends to perform on its stage include Sophie Tucker, George Jessel, Eddie Cantor, Will Rogers, Buster Keaton, Milton Berle, Mae West, Roy Rogers & Gene Autry. As was the case with so many grand theaters, changing times took its toll on the Lyric and it closed in the 1950's. It was briefly resurrected under different names in the early 1970's initially showing classical films, but its final days were as a porn theatre. It is presently owned and is being restored by Birmingham Landmarks, Inc. Donations are always welcome and much needed. Contact Cecil Whitmire, Director, 1817 Third Avenue North, B'ham, AL 35203, 205-252-2262 alatheatre@aol.com