Charline McCombs Empire Theatre
United States,
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Charline McCombs Empire Theatre

The Charline McCombs Empire Theatre is a historic performance venue located in downtown San Antonio, Texas. Originally opened in 1914 as the Empire Theatre, it was designed with European palazzo-style architecture and served as a vaudeville and movie... read more house for many decades. In 1998, the theater underwent a major restoration, made possible in part by a $1 million contribution from philanthropist Charline McCombs. Following the renovation, it reopened under its current name and was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
Today, the venue offers a wide range of live entertainment, including concerts, theatrical productions, stand-up comedy, and private events. It features a cozy and elegant atmosphere, with a seating capacity of around 856 distributed across orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony sections. The theater’s lavish interior includes detailed plasterwork and gold leaf accents, creating a classic and intimate experience for audiences.
Notable upcoming events include performances by acclaimed guitarist Tommy Emmanuel on December 5, 2025, and the Artimus Pyle Band on July 26, 2025. The Charline McCombs Empire Theatre continues to be a cornerstone of San Antonio’s cultural scene, blending its historic charm with a lineup of diverse, high-quality performances year-round.