the american theater

take a step back in time, to one of Charleston's most iconic buildings.
the american theater illustration post card
strolling down king street in charleston, south carolina is probably one of my most favorite things to do. The architecture, the history, the warm pastel color palettes that dance off of the buildings as the sun shines on their facades. Its all very dreamy and romantic. Even in the hustle and bustle of today’s world, you still get that feeling of nostalgia that can unexpectedly envelope you, which is the charm that is Charleston.
One of those buildings on upper king that I simply cannot walk pass without taking a moment to stop and appreciate its beauty, is the American Theater. 
Sitting pretty at 446 King Street is a gorgeous, light blush art deco building with its hand lettered “American” sign beaming out with imaginary outstretched arms. It’s small in stature but makes up for it in quaint and alluring details indicative of the era it was born.
The American opened its doors in 1942 with the premier of Joan of Ozark. Built during the early years of World War II, its name is a nod to the military men and women that were serving the country abroad. 
patrick properties hospitality group (https://www.pphgcharleston.com)
patrick properties hospitality group (https://www.pphgcharleston.com)
Augustus E. Constantine, an immigrant of Greece, built the American with Hellenic elements from his homeland, and combined them with the Art Deco style that was becoming increasingly popular during that time. The interior was adorned with vaulted ceilings, gilded with gold, and milk glass chandeliers dangling down at you from up above. Constantine contributed a few other buildings to the skyline of King Street, The Chase Furniture Building and what is currently the Quiksilver store in the shopping district. Both include those clean lines and geometric art deco shapes so synonymous with that period.
american theater early years
photo credit : patrick properties hospitality group https://www.pphgcharleston.com
The popularity of the American quickly diminished in 1977 as many Upper King Street business began to see their demise. After years of remaining closed, it re-opened in the late 1990s as a movie + dining experience. In present day, it houses an event space, and offers its backdrop to hundreds of wedding and events every year. 
american theater in the notebook
And, if you’re a fan of that one popular, romantic movie, I think it’s called “The Notebook”, then you probably recognize the American Theater as one of the settings for Noah + Allie’s downtown date. You know, the one where they walk down the middle of the street (King Street), dance, and lay down under the traffic lights as noah teaches her how to trust and “they fell in love”. * swoon * (but also, that’s really dangerous, and you definitely shouldn’t try that).
If you ever find yourself taking a stroll down the upper portion of King Street, you can’t miss the beacon that is The American Theater. Adorned with an American Flag and positive messages spelled out on it’s marquee on a daily basis, it truly is the bright, shining star of the best parts of Charleston. 
Click below to add a little “american theater” love to your wall. 
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