BRISTOL, Va. — Bristol's iconic Cameo Theater, one of the oldest theaters in Virginia, has been put up for sale for $2.9 million, surprising many as the announcement comes just a few months after it collaborates with Bristol Casino to boost live music in the city. The theater's owner, Brent Buchanan, and the realtor have yet to comment on the sale.
In a listing that reads like a tour through history, the Cameo Theater, located on State Street in downtown Bristol, is promoted as a chance to own a significant piece of the city's heritage. The theater is less than 10 minutes from the future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and is within walking distance of hotels, restaurants, bars, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
The theater opened in 1925 and was considered the most advanced facility in the region at its launch. The owner has revitalized it, preserving its unique historical aspects while updating it with modern conveniences and technology. The original seating remains refurbished to modern standards, and the original hardwood flooring has been refinished. Other enhancements include new carpet in seating areas, tile throughout the foyer and bathrooms, updated electricity and plumbing, a handicap-accessible restroom on the main level, and fully remodeled upper-level restrooms.
Furthermore, the sale will include new custom sound and lighting equipment. A recently added VIP seating area and room for catered food and drinks, complete with a private restroom, are among the venue's newer features. The theater's seating capacity currently stands at 530, including the VIP area.
Potential buyers might be intrigued by the possibilities of expanding onto the theater's rooftop and converting an unfinished back room into a kitchen to boost food and beverage sales. Although the Cameo primarily serves as a live-music venue, it retains a movie screen and has versatility for uses like meetings, plays, recitals, and weddings.
In late February, the Cameo Theater announced a partnership with Bristol Casino, a Hard Rock International property, to bring more live music to Bristol. Upon reaching out for an update on the partnership's status, the casino responded: “We are continuing to work with the Cameo sending our guests to concerts to enhance their visits to Bristol. Once there is an agreement in place, we can discuss the future of the partnership with the new owners and decide if we want to move forward or not."
The Cameo Theater's sale has sparked interest and speculation among Bristol residents and beyond, all curious to see how the change in ownership will influence the future of this historic landmark. Potential buyers, theater lovers, and the Bristol community will watch closely as this piece of Bristol's history awaits its next chapter.
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