Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center (Lexington, Kentucky)

The Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center, located in Lexington, Kentucky, is a historic venue that serves as a center for performing arts, cultural events, and community engagement. Originally opened in 1948 as a segregated movie house for the African American community, it played a significant role in Lexington's social and cultural life during the Jim Crow era. Following a period of decline and closure, the theatre underwent extensive renovations and reopened in 2010 as a fully restored and modernized performing arts center.

The Lyric Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances, including concerts, plays, dance performances, film screenings, and lectures. It also features art exhibitions and educational programs designed to promote cultural understanding and appreciation. The center's mission is to preserve the history of the original Lyric Theatre, celebrate African American culture, and provide a welcoming space for all members of the community to experience and participate in the arts.

The building includes a main theatre, a smaller black box theatre, gallery spaces, classrooms, and community meeting rooms. Its architectural design incorporates elements of its original mid-century modern style while integrating modern amenities to meet the needs of contemporary performances. The Lyric Theatre is a key landmark in Lexington's East End neighborhood and a valuable asset to the city's cultural landscape.