Ritz Theatre #2

The Leon Theatre was a short-lived movie house destination for African American patrons in San Antonio. The project developed after the even more short-lived Rialto Theatre had failed in the 1884-built Dullnig Building that was housed in the Smartset Auditorium / Cotton Club / various lodge space within the downtown building. The Leon Theatre launched April 11, 1936 with Bill Robinson and Shirley Temple in “The Littlest Rebel” supported by Cab Calloway in “Hi-De-Ho” and Farina in “Our Gang”.

Located next to W.H. Leonard’s Pharmacy, the Leon Theatre was primed for success in the Denver Heights neighborhood. The theatre scuffled and, under new ownership, became the Royal Theatre on April 2, 1940 offering the “most'a and best'a entertainment”. It was one of two Royal Theatres in San Antonio. This Royal Theatre closed during World War II and was replaced by Don’s Keyhole Club, a live nightclub catering to African American audiences.

On May 7, 1948, the venue became home to the Ritz Theatre, also catering to African American patrons. Along with the Santikos' operated Rex Theatre, these were the two post-War African American movie houses in San Antonio. The venue advertised movies into 1955 before becoming the Ritz Hall transitioning live events. In 1966, it became Soulsville, U.S.A. Club. It ceased operation and has since been demolished.

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