Designed by C.K. Howell of New York with interior design by William Saling, also of New York, the Rylander was a visual feast of ornate plaster work, beautiful stencil patterns, and painted murals. Closed for more than 40 years, the theatre still has much of its original grandeur intact. Having reopened after an extensive restoration (4.8 million dollars), the Rylander Theatre staff and Boards of Directors are working diligently to maintain this historic treasure in Downtown Americus. Once known as "The Finest Playhouse South of Atlanta," the Rylander is well known around the state of Georgia and the Southeastern United States.
The Jimmy Carter Auditorium at the Rylander Theatre. The Theatre reopened October 1, 1999 in conjunction with the Celebration of Pres. Carter's birthday and the Auditorium was named in his honor.
A view of the restored auditorium looking from the stage. The Theatre seats over 600 on three levels: Orchestra, Balcony, and Gallery. The theatre was painstakingly restored to reflect its original Art Deco aesthetic.
