The Rome Little Theatre at the DeSoto Theatre
The historic curtain opens still
By Jason Fordham

Following You Can’t Take It With You, RLT produced Lo and Behold, Our Town, Harvey, Tender Trap, Seven Year Itch, Carousel, My Three Angels, Solid Gold Cadillac, Bus Stop, Born Yesterday, and Bell, Book and Candle.  Most of these early productions were staged at the old Gordon Theatre, currently the Partridge Restaurant on Broad Street.

In the 1960’s, the Maple Street Theatre, RLT’s home following the Gordon Theatre, was soon outgrown.   South Pacific and The King and I, two successful shows contributed to an exciting new trend in Rome—live theatre.

As RLT grew, a new stage was again needed; the DeSoto Theatre became that home.  Today, RLT produces a full season of shows every year frequently including summer shows.  In addition to the RLT season, the Historic DeSoto Theatre hosts other theatre and arts groups on the DeSoto Theatre stage.

The DeSoto Theatre was originally constructed as a cinema.  One of the finest in the south, the DeSoto Theatre was equipped with the finest sound and picture synchronization devices available.  Built and equipped with its patrons in mind, the theatre was gloriously outfitted for comfort.

Stepping through the gallery doors and into the ornate, breath-taking gallery of the DeSoto Theatre is like taking a step back in time.  Though still glorious and magnificent, the building has begun to show its age again.  When first occupied by RLT, the DeSoto Theatre was in need of alteration and restoration.  The first ten rows of seats were removed and the stage was extended to include a new orchestra pit.  The cinema projection booth was converted into the current light and sound booth.  The original paint and color scheme were still visible, and an artist was hired to help with restoration accuracy. 

Now, over three decades later, the historic decorations are again in need of repair.  Water damage—now under control—has caused ongoing sheetrock damage.  The theatre has many pressing restoration needs; most important of these are repairs and restorations to the entrance, façade, electrical wiring, bathrooms and plumbing, lighting system, sound system, flooring throughout the building and heating and air conditioning—current systems are archaic and inefficient. Much work has already been done, including a new facade, a completely renovated upstairs banquet hall, and a brand new, updated arcade and foyer.

To tackle these major improvements, RLT created the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation and deeded the DeSoto Theatre to the new, nonprofit organization. The HDTF raises funds through membership, donations, rentals and benefit concerts and events. 

RLT looks forward to your participation and involvement.  Whether you enjoy acting, directing, producing, helping with make up or costumes, selling tickets or concessions or building sets there is always room for you at RLT.  While experience is helpful in some areas, RLT gladly welcomes and encourages new faces.  Theatre is fun and rewarding, and RLT is always looking for new friends!