Pearl Theater

Neighborhood:North

Address:
2047-59 Ridge Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19121

Significance:
Considered a "premier colored theater" and commonly called "The Black Pearl," the Pearl Theater had all of the top bands and acts of the black circuit after it opened in 1927. Pearl Bailey (1918-1990, see entry) made her first stage appearance here in an amateur talent show while her brother Bill Bailey sold candy in the back of the house. The three-story red brick structure had a lavish interior with jeweled light fixtures and red velvet hangings, a Kimball Theater Organ and an 11-piece pit orchestra. Joseph Long served as the general contractor for this 1,400-seat theater. Its success faded after the 1940s.

Type of Historic Resource:theater

Date Built / Architect:1927

Extant: no