Forest Theatre Reopens in South Dallas After Half-Century Closure

The Forest Theatre in South Dallas reopened Sunday evening after a fifty-year hiatus. The venue’s tower lights illuminated the area for the first time in five decades, marking the official return of the historic site.

The restoration project was led by Forest Forward. The organization converted the site into a cultural hub while preserving its original characteristics. The updated space includes restored lounges, theaters, and education centers. A Starbucks now occupies part of the building.

The reopening event took place at the closed intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and S. M. Wright Freeway. Hundreds of residents gathered for the celebration, with many attendees dressed in black. Music played throughout the evening, culminating in a live performance by South Dallas musician Erykah Badu.

Camilo Diaz Jr., a visual journalist for the Dallas Free Press, documented the event. Diaz previously worked as a video intern at KERA and as a multimedia fellow at the Fort Worth Report. He holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a concentration in photojournalism from the University of North Texas.

Diaz focuses on capturing community and civic life through a multimedia approach. His work aims to present local neighborhoods beyond typical images of crime and blight. He uses photography, video, and audio to tell stories for under-covered audiences.