Chattanooga Restored Tivoli Theatre Marquee
Ortwein Sign completed the installation of new LED displays as part of a $75 million renovation project.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The historic Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga has unveiled its newly restored marquee featuring modern LED displays. This upgrade is part of a larger $75 million revitalization project aimed at preserving the site while modernizing its facilities.
Why it matters
The restoration balances the preservation of a local landmark that first opened in 1921 with the need for upgraded infrastructure. These improvements ensure the venue can maintain its historic aesthetic while meeting modern performance standards.
The restoration of the theater exterior cost approximately $300,000 and required the replacement of 1,500 bulbs. The broader project currently has a total budget of $75 million.
The players
Tivoli Theatre
This historic venue located on Broad Street serves as a cornerstone for performing arts in Chattanooga.
Ortwein Sign
This company is a specialized signage firm responsible for the technical installation of the theater marquee displays.
Billy Strings
He is a professional musician scheduled to hold concerts at the renovated theater in late 2026.
The details
Ortwein Sign installed the LED technology within the existing marquee structure while workers performed comprehensive electrical and ventilation upgrades. The project also included meticulous neon repairs to maintain the look of the vertical blade sign first installed in 1958.
Timeline
The Tivoli Theatre first opened its doors in 1921.
The iconic vertical blade sign was added to the marquee in 1958.
Billy Strings is scheduled to perform at the theater on October 20 and 21, 2026.
The adjoining Performing Arts Center is slated to open in February 2027.
Market Landscape
This project reflects a wider trend of cities investing heavily in historic district revitalization to drive downtown economic growth. It follows the precedent set by the 1921 original opening of the Tivoli Theatre by ensuring the venue remains a competitive player in the regional touring market.
Visitors can now see the modernized exterior marquee while the venue prepares for upcoming major concert events. Those interested in supporting the project can name seats starting at $500 or marquee bulbs starting at $150.
The takeaway
Large-scale cultural restoration projects often require a blend of modern technology and historic craftsmanship to remain viable for current audiences. Residents can actively participate in these venue preservation efforts through dedicated naming programs for infrastructure features.
What happens next
The Tivoli Theatre is confirmed to host concerts by Billy Strings on October 20 and 21, 2026, followed by the projected opening of the Performing Arts Center in February 2027.
Further reading
For additional context on local venue updates, visit the Chattanooga Openings & Closings section.
More information
Find specific details regarding the restoration and donation opportunities on the Tivoli Theatre campaign information and giving website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chattanoogan.
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