Constructed in 1936 as part of the Texas Centennial celebration, the Sunken Garden Theater was once considered one of San Antonio’s most treasured landmarks. However, over the years, San Antonio’s only outdoor amphitheater has suffered from decades of decline and neglect – leaving the venue unable to meet the technical needs of major artists or to provide the modern venue amenities expected by patrons. The result is a sub-standard, under-utilized venue that is limited in its programming opportunities and is currently incapable of being financially self-sustaining.

The San Antonio Parks Foundation has been a long time champion of both the Japanese Tea Garden and the Sunken Garden Theater. Following the recent successful renovation of the Tea Garden and the iconic Jingu House, the Parks Foundation has now turned its sights to the theater. In 2011, the City of San Antonio entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Parks Foundation, providing the opportunity not only to redevelop the Sunken Garden Theater property, but also to oversee operations and management of the venue.

The Parks Foundation has partnered with ACE Theatrical Group to develop their shared vision of a renovated live-performance facility located in the heart of the city. ACE Theatrical is recognized as a national leader in the redevelopment and restoration of landmark theatrical venues throughout North America. Here in San Antonio they have successfully renovated and maintained the Majestic and Charline McCombs Empire Theatres and are excited for the opportunity to partner with the Parks Foundation to transform this historic venue into an active, vibrant performing arts facility that can be treasured by this city once again.

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