About

The Jewel Theater is Oklahoma City’s only remaining historic Black theater—a powerful symbol of culture, resilience, and community.

Built in 1931 by Hathyel and Percy James, the Jewel served as a vital gathering place during segregation, offering Black residents a space to experience films, live performances, and community events without restriction. Located along NE 4th Street, it stood at the center of a once-thriving corridor of Black-owned businesses, music venues, and social life.

Though the theater closed in the late 1960s, its legacy remains. Today, the Jewel stands as the last physical link to that vibrant era—and a reminder of what is possible when community, culture, and ownership come together.

Our Vision

We are restoring and reactivating the Jewel Theater as more than a historic landmark—we are building a cultural and economic engine for Northeast Oklahoma City.

The reimagined Jewel will serve as a hub for film, live performance, creative entrepreneurship, and workforce development in the arts. As it comes back to life, it will anchor the revitalization of the N.E. 4th Street corridor—reconnecting history with opportunity and creating space for new businesses, new voices, and new experiences to thrive.

This is more than preservation—it is progress.

Be Part of the Revival

The Jewel cannot come back to life without community support.

Here’s how you can help:

• Give – Your donation directly supports restoration, programming, and workforce initiatives

• Show Up – Attend events and be part of the growing energy around the Jewel

• Partner – Collaborate with us as a sponsor, creative, or community organization

• Share the Story – Help us spread awareness and build momentum

Every action—big or small—moves us closer to reopening the doors and restoring a legacy.

Join us in bringing the Jewel back to life.