Built in 1899, it originally served as an opera house, but was later converted to a movie palace.
[1][2] Following renovations in the 1920s or 1930s that included the installation of a marquee, the building was renamed the Ritz Theatre and converted to a movie palace.
[1][3] During this time, the theater was segregated, with African Americans allowed to enter the building through a separate door and view showings from the balcony.
[1] In 1980, the city of Brunswick bought the property, and since 1989 it has been managed by the Golden Isles Arts and Humanities Association.
[3] Today, live performances, movie screenings, and other art exhibits are held at the venue.