The Arcadia Theatre - A Sad Farewell

I meant to mourn the loss of the Arcadia Theatre on lower Greenville yesterday on ye 'ol blog. It burnt down yesterday in a 6 alarm fire along with surrounding restaurants. In the 80s and early 90s, it was primarily used as a concert venue with acts such as the Jesus and Mary Chain and NIN playing there. It was, to a degree, up there with the Bronco Bowl as concert venues that were influential on my formative years. I particularly recall seeing the Sundays play there when I was a Senior in high school. I can remember driving in my Dodge Shadow like it was yesterday with three of my friends all excited to see the Sundays.

In 1990, I saw 4 local bands that were so Dallas and so very New Wave. I loved it! I loved driving by the place. I loved the 1920s architecture. I am very sad as it seems to be a total loss and will certainly be demolished. It isn't just the memories. It was an icon for this city--something that we already have too few of. I will miss the character of the building--my only hope is whatever is built in its place respects the architecture of what once stood there and the unique surroundings of the neighborhood.