The Bama Theatre was originally constructed from 1937–38 through Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal as a Public Works Administration project.

Twinkling stars and clouds on the ceiling create an open air feel in the performance hall.

[6] The theatre was converted to a performing arts center in 1976 and has been completely renovated for live theatrical/concert use.

With the arrival of theater manager David Allgood in 2003, the Bama became a sought-after venue for touring artists; but that has waned after he retired circa 2019.

Past screenings have included Boyhood, Moonrise Kingdom, Turn Me On, Dammit, Room, and the world premier of John Sayles's Honeydripper, which was filmed in Alabama.

[9] The Bama Theatre is home to several performance groups from Tuscaloosa and the surrounding area.