Fox Theatre Institute's 2nd Annual Theatre Revival Tour Set for 5/1-3

The Fox Theatre Institute (FTI), a dynamic Atlanta-based outreach program created by The Fox Theatre, will showcase three of its theatre restoration projects during the second annual THEATRE REVIVAL TOUR. The three-day tour, taking place May 1 - 3, aims to raise awareness for each of the historic venues by embracing local community efforts surrounding the preservation of these theatres.

The Georgia-based tour will feature two restoration projects completed over the past year, including the Plaza Theatre in Atlanta and The President Theatre in Manchester, as well as revisiting the restoration of the Morton Theatre in Athens, which received funding in 2011.These theatre transformations, supported by FTI, have allowed for substantial restoration, preservation and future planning - all of which create a sustainable environment for arts programs while building stronger communities.

Each destination on the FTI THEATRE REVIVAL TOUR will host a community festival, featuring Atlanta resident and legendary blues songstress, Francine Reed. Widely known for her talent as Lyle Lovett's duet and back-up vocalist, Reed has now become one of Atlanta's most treasured artists and continues to expand her fan base at venues around the country. Reed's performance is supported by an innovative program created by FTI called Georgia Presenters. Georgia Presenters is the statewide booking consortium that links arts presenters and artists, theatres and communities. By leveraging its assets through block bookings, Georgia Presenters allows communities to attract a higher level of talent at more affordable prices.

The FTI THEATRE REVIVAL TOUR will feature the following theatres:

The President Theatre, Manchester (May 1, 6:00 PM) - FTI grant funding has allowed for a complete restoration of the historic theatre's façade from the marquee to the top of the tower and spire, which had been in disrepair for more than thirty years. The emphasis of the restoration focused on rehabilitating this structure to its original art deco splendor of 1935.

The Plaza Theatre, Atlanta (May 2, 6:00 PM) - FTI grant funding contributed to the restoration of The Plaza Theatre's landmark marquee during this, its 75th anniversary year. The restoration process involved removing rust and repainting the sign to its original colors while new LED lighting was added to create a more sustainable sign for the future.

Morton Theatre, Athens (May 3, 6:00 PM) - The 2011 grant from FTI allowed for needed improvements to restore the theatre's historic hardwood flooring structure. Grant funds were allocated for new sub-floor installation throughout the theatre and for the addition of reclaimed heart pine boards overlaying existing orchestra and balcony floors.

"Forty years ago, the people of Atlanta rallied to save the Fox Theatre from demolition. Today we are proud that the Fox Theatre Institute is providing the same support to theatres all across the state," says Adina Erwin, General Manager of the Fox Theatre. "Our goal is to help revitalize Georgia's communities, one theatre at a time."

For more information on the tour, visit www.foxtheatreinstitute.org.