Forest Theater reopens in South Dallas after $70M overhaul

South Dallas Celebrates Grand Return of Historic Forest Theater After $70 Million Revitalization

Hundreds of residents gathered on November 1, 2026, as the historic Forest Theater in South Dallas reopened its doors following a $70 million revitalization led by the nonprofit organization Forest Forward. The evening featured a checkered dance floor, food trucks, and a surprise performance by Erykah Badu, marking the first major event for the 45,000-square-foot cultural campus.

Revitalizing a 1949 Cultural Landmark

Built in 1949, the Forest Theater spent nearly two decades sitting dormant before its recent overhaul. According to reporting from The Beat DFW, the campus now features a 1,000-seat concert hall, a 200-seat studio theater, a rooftop deck, a café, and a 13,000-square-foot Creative Education Laboratory equipped with recording studios and podcasting facilities. The transformation was catalyzed by a $10 million foundational gift from philanthropists Jon and Linda Halbert in 2021.

Forest Forward CEO Elizabeth Wattley emphasized the community-driven ethos of the project during the Sunday evening celebration. Wattley, an Oak Cliff native, began working to save the building in 2017.

Erykah Badu performs at November 1 event

Hosted by media personality Lady Jade, the November 1 event drew local dignitaries including Forest Forward Board Chair Matrice Ellis-Kirk, State Senator Royce West, Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, and Dallas City Council Member Adam Bazaldua. Musical acts included Big Tuck, Da’Raja Superstar, and Grammy-winning gospel artist Tamela Mann.

The night culminated in a surprise set by Erykah Badu, who previously operated the theater in the 2000s. Decked in a three-piece corduroy suit, Badu performed tracks including “Out My Mind, Just in Time,” “On and On,” and “Tyrone.” Following her set, organizers officially relighted the theater’s iconic green neon tower and marquee, illuminating the sky for the first time in more than 50 years.

Public programming launches in spring 2027

While the Grand Return on November 1 marked a major milestone for the neighborhood, public programming for the newly renovated campus is scheduled to launch in spring 2027. According to Forest Forward, the theater will host private trial events over the coming months as operations scale up.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Forest Theater Reopening

When did the Forest Theater officially reopen?

The historic theater celebrated its Grand Return with a public event on Sunday, November 1, 2026, running from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

When will public events begin at the venue?

According to The Beat DFW, the theater will host private trial events over the next few months, with its first public entertainment season scheduled to launch in spring 2027.

Who funded the $70 million restoration project?

The massive revitalization was led by the nonprofit organization Forest Forward, with momentum catalyzed by a $10 million foundational gift from philanthropists Jon and Linda Halbert in 2021, alongside contributions from community advocates and supporters.

What amenities are included in the new campus?

The expanded 45,000-square-foot campus houses a 1,000-seat concert hall, a 200-seat studio theater, a rooftop deck, community gathering spaces, and a 13,000-square-foot Creative Education Laboratory featuring recording studios and podcasting facilities.