The Fox Theater in Oakland reached a significant milestone this February, celebrating its 15th anniversary since its grand reopening as a premier live entertainment venue in 2009. Managed by Another Planet Entertainment, the iconic theater underwent a remarkable transformation, restoring its historic grandeur after being closed for over 40 years.
Originally established in 1928 as a movie palace, the Fox Theater closed its doors in 1966, only to be revitalized through a massive $75 million renovation project. This ambitious endeavor aimed to preserve its architectural splendor while equipping it with modern amenities, including a state-of-the-art Meyer sound system.
One of the notable aspects of the Fox Theater is its collaboration with the Oakland School for the Arts (OSA), a nonprofit public charter school founded in 2002 by former Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown. Serving over 800 students tuition-free, OSA offers a comprehensive curriculum integrating arts education with academic studies, fostering creativity and personal growth.
Throughout the past decade and a half, the Fox Theater has become a favored destination for both artists and audiences, boasting a capacity of up to 2,800. Renowned performers such as Bob Dylan, Billie Eilish, Prince, and Kendrick Lamar have graced its stage, alongside a diverse array of talents spanning music, comedy, and spoken word.
Having grown up in the Bay, the Fox holds a very special place in my heart. It’s been incredible to see the impact its reopening has had on the city of Oakland but also the Bay Area as a whole. It’s a dream and a privilege to bring such a talented lineup of artists and an eclectic group of fans to Oakland over the last eight years.
Eric Barleen, Vice President of Concerts for Another Planet Entertainment
The Fox Theater has been at the heart of the rejuvenation of Oakland’s Uptown entertainment hub, fueling the expansion of dining options, nightlife attractions, and housing projects within the area. It enjoys accessibility for visitors hailing from different counties across the Bay Area, reinforcing its position as a cultural epicenter in the region.
We’re very proud to have brought the magic of the historic Fox Theater alive again over the last fifteen years for fans all across the Bay to enjoy. It’s been our great pleasure to revitalize such an iconic architectural landmark for Uptown Oakland.
Gregg Perloff, Founder and CEO of Another Planet Entertainment
Established in 2003, Another Planet Entertainment stands as the largest independent promoter in the United States, renowned for its diverse lineup of events featuring top-tier artists across various genres. With a portfolio that includes exclusive partnerships with iconic venues such as the Fox Theater, the company continues to shape the live entertainment landscape, enriching communities and fostering artistic expression.
Still going strong after 15 years of investments and memories, the Fox Theater certainly has a bright future as a cultural landmark. Their website has information regarding upcoming events, galleries, and their merch shop. They can also be found on Facebook and Instagram.