The Tybee Post Theater: A Community Centerpiece
The coastal town of Savannah, Georgia, is home to an incredible local treasure, The Tybee Post Theater. Preserved in time and rich with historic charm, this remarkable venue not only offers an intimate theatre space but also serves as an intimate hub for various forms of artistic expression and community gatherings.
About the Tybee Post Theater
Located on Tybee Island, the Post Theater has hosted numerous plays, musicals, movies, and concerts all enjoyed by the Savannah community over the years. The venue provides an incredible atmosphere with amazing acoustics and comfortable seating for 206 people. Patrons also get to enjoy a unique experience of purchasing wine or beer from the concession stand without missing significant parts of the shows. Despite its notable offering, it remains mind-blowing that many Savannah residents are yet to uncover this hidden gem.
The Theater has been under the able management of Evan Goetz, who has been at the helm since the spring of 2021. Goetz, chosen from a pool of over a hundred applicants, has significantly contributed to the venue’s evolution as an invaluable community center. Armed with a rich background in arts administration, the enthusiastic executive has taken great strides to promote and expand the theatre’s reach, despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic.
The Theater’s Rich Cultural Offering
Under Goetz’s leadership, the Tybee Post Theater has grown to offer an even broader array of cultural offerings. From Oscar-nominated movies to family-friendly films during the summer and performances by local and regional bands, the theater ensures to have something for everyone. They also continually host stand-up comedy shows, historical lectures, and several tribute bands, perfectly capturing the vibrant culture of the Savannah community.
The theater’s rich history adds to its charm. Constructed in 1930 as one of the first Georgia movie theaters equipped to show feature-length “talkies”, the Post Theater served as a movie house for U.S. soldiers and their families during World War II. The venue has hosted various notable figures such as Base Commander General George C. Marshall, songwriter Johnny Mercer, and future President Dwight Eisenhower.
Supporting Local Artists
In addition to showcasing international and national talent, the Tybee Post Theater is also committed to supporting local artists. Goetz believes that the theater should contribute to the local economy by providing an accessible, affordable space for theater and dance in Savannah. Consequently, the venue regularly hosts Savannah Stage Company, Savannah Ballet Theatre, Tybee Ballet Theatre, and the Savannah Repertory Theatre.
The Future of Tybee Post Theater
Moving forward, Goetz aims to maintain the momentum and continue expanding the theater’s reach beyond the residents of Tybee. He believes that the charm and cultural enrichment offered by the theater make it worth a 20 or 25-minute drive to the island for Savannah’s residents. With a record of over 18,000 tickets sold in 2023, including 9,000 to Savannah residents, the theater’s reach is palpable. Even in these promising times, Goetz asserts that there’s more work to be done, particularly ensuring local creatives and artists have continually supported.
The Tybee Post Theater stands as a testament to the rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene of Tybee and Savannah. It’s much more than a venue; it’s a symbol of community, creativity, and resilience. With its packed schedule, the Tybee Post Theater remains tireless in its commitment to bringing diverse, high-quality entertainment to the local community.
