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For the first time in 40 years, the Royal Theater’s marquee was lit. After closing, becoming city hall and closing again, the Hogansville landmark is open for business. On Nov. 9 after a long renovation, the theater celebrated its grand reopening in style with a swanky gala. 

Local officials, residents and even people from states away congregated in the renovated theater to commemorate its history and toast its future. It was a formal affair, with many of the attendees wearing tuxes and gowns. Joe Gransden and Robin Herbert-Latimore performed with their big band, feeling at home in the Art Deco building. 

Some kids, who hadn’t been alive when the theater was open, were in attendance. Then there were those who fondly recalled weekend movies at the Royal. For all, it was an emotional night.

Rob Dippel, the Managing Director of the theater welcomed the packed house and introduced Hogansville mayor Jake Ayers. Ayers recounted stories he had heard from Hogansville residents about the theater, from their first kiss at the theater to their first slap. 

“I can only imagine how many more we can tell tonight if these walls had the ability to speak…But the story must go on,” said Ayers.

The theater, as it did when last opened, will host a variety of shows. Already on the schedule is a slate of movies, concerts and a Christmas event. The first movie in the newly renovated space will be Jaws, which Ayers said was the last movie shown at the theater. 

“Theater, music, art; It’s something that births dreams in us. It’s something that brings us together. It’s something that transcends no matter where you’re from or where you’re going. And it’s something that’s beautiful for us to be able to share tonight,” said Ayers. 

Ayers was joined by city manager Lisa Kelley for a special presentation. Lynne Miller has been the city of Hogansville grant writer for decades. Her work allowed for the funding of the theater renovations. 

“She has been so devoted to this real theater renovation that she actually postponed her retirement to see it completed, which meant she was staying until tonight happened,” Kelley said. 

Ayers said that Miller announced during the last council meeting that Nov. 9, the reopening of the theater, would be her final night as a Hogansville employee. Ayers and Kelley presented Miller with a plaque for her efforts. 

The rest of the night was spent watching the performance, eating cake and celebrating. This time, the marquee will stay lit.