The Tuscaloosa County Commission has reached an agreement with the Tuscaloosa County Parks and Recreation Authority (PARA) to purchase the historic Bama Theatre and adjoining office space in downtown Tuscaloosa.

County leaders say the move will help preserve one of West Alabama’s most recognizable cultural landmarks while ensuring the venue remains available for community events, performances and public gatherings.

Opened in 1938, the Bama Theatre has long served as a centerpiece for arts and cultural activity in Tuscaloosa County. Over the decades, the venue has hosted musical performances, theatrical productions, school programs and a wide range of community events.

Commission officials said acquiring the property will keep the landmark under civic ownership and preserve its role as a gathering place for residents and visitors.

The theatre itself carries significant historical importance.

It was constructed in the late 1930s as part of a joint city hall and theatre project funded by the Public Works Administration, one of the major New Deal programs created during President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s effort to help the country recover from the Great Depression.

The auditorium was designed to resemble a Mediterranean courtyard under a starlit sky and features murals painted by Italian artist Navino Nataloni. In recognition of its historical significance, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

County leaders say the facility will continue to play a major role in Tuscaloosa’s cultural life.

The Tuscaloosa County Commission plans to partner with the Arts and Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa County, as well as both the Tuscaloosa County and Tuscaloosa City school systems, to expand use of the theatre for concerts, drama productions, dance performances and pageants.

Officials say the venue will also continue hosting the wide variety of events residents have come to expect, including concerts, movies, dance recitals and live theater performances.

Members of the Tuscaloosa County Commission — Probate Judge and Chairman Rob Robertson and commissioners Stan Acker, Jerry Tingle, Mark Nelson and Reginald Murray — unanimously supported the purchase.

County leaders said the goal is to ensure the Bama Theatre continues serving as Tuscaloosa County’s central hub for arts, entertainment and community gatherings for generations to come.