history
board
staff

Founded in 1976, the League of Historic American Theatres (LHAT) is an international, not-for-profit membership association that promotes the rescue, rehabilitation and sustainable operation of historic theatres throughout North America.

We believe that historic theatres are irreplaceable social, economic, historic and cultural resources for their communities. The League defines "historic theatre" as a place of public assembly that is at least 50 years old or has cultural, historical, social or architectural significance.

The League serves historic American theatres by supporting a community of professional practice through a network of shared experience. Members of the League include professional theatre managers throughout the U.S. and Canada, who are effective cultural conveners in communities large and small, as well as architects, engineers, specialists in historic finishes, and a range of other consultants, service providers and suppliers. League members are dedicated to rescuing historic theatres in their communities and returning cultural vitality to their main streets. Some have successfully energized venues and communities, generating significant economic and cultural benefits for their communities. Others are dedicated to providing services, crafts, arts and artists required to professionally restore and operate historic theatres.

Recognizing issues and challenges unique to operating historic theatres, the League focuses on programs that serve to sustain them, including educational programs, publications, specialized services and an annual conference and theatre tour.