Tivoli Taps AC Entertainment

The venues are owned by the city but have operated by the non-profit foundation since February. A citizens group recommended the takeover, based on a similar model in Knoxville, Tenn., that has been successful – and AC Entertainment was chosen by that group to operate the Tennessee and Bijou theatres in that city.

The Tivoli Foundation cited that track record in making its choice, according to WTVC-TV of Chattanooga, with its goal to increase activity in order to attract more people to the downtown area.

“When we compared the number and quality of events that AC Entertainment has consistently booked and produced in the other facilities that it manages with other comparable venues, it was clear that their approach brings the energy, vision, and leadership needed to accomplish that goal,” Tivoli Foundation Chairman Keith Sanford said in a statement.

“There’s already so much vitality and energy in this city, and we’re looking forward to being a part of that,” AC Entertainment CEO Ashley Capps said. “We know firsthand how much actively and creatively programmed venues can add to a community.”

The 1,762-capacity Tivoli Theatre opened in 1921 and was purchased by the city of Chattanooga in 1976 after it was closed by its previous owners. Soldier and Sailor Memorial Auditorium seats 3,866 and was built by the city at about the same time.

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke told The Chattanoogan the city was losing $750,000 on the two venues when he announced the formation of the Tivoli Foundation to operate the venues earlier this year