Cactus Theater

The Cactus Theater was constructed in Lubbock, TX in 1937 and officially opened in April 1938 as the first suburban, neighborhood movie theater. Built with a cost of around $30,000, it originally featured 720 seats and a washed air cooling system (air-conditioning). Its marquee featured 750 feet of neon lighting.

Movies are no longer played at the Cactus, but music is.

Don Caldwell's vision began in the Fall 1993 when he purchased the Cactus Theater with the help of investors. His vision was to provide a venue to cultivate, mentor and showcase talented West Texas performers and present an entertainment opportunity for the region never before available. This vision helped plant the initial cornerstone for the development of the Lubbock Depot Entertainment District.

For this renovation the theater retained its balcony, sloped floor and stage. The projection booth was redesigned to hold spotlights, including a state of the art sound and light system. Approximately, 400 modern seats were installed with an up to date concession stand and restrooms in the lobby. Artist John Russell Thomasson provided the final touch with a complete surrounded Caprock Canyon mural that included a stage backdrop to give an outdoor mood while inside the Cactus.

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