Macon’s Historic Grand Opera House Rebrands as The Piedmont Grand Opera House
The iconic Grand Opera House in downtown Macon has officially been renamed The Piedmont Grand Opera House, marking the beginning of a new era for the storied venue. The announcement was made earlier today by officials from Piedmont Healthcare, Mercer University, and The Grand Opera House.
Piedmont, which operates two hospitals in Macon—Piedmont Macon Medical Center and Piedmont Macon North Hospital—secured the naming rights as part of a multi-year partnership with the historic theatre. Immediately following the announcement, the theatre’s marquee and entrance were updated with the new name, “The Piedmont Grand Opera House.”
“We’re pleased to have Piedmont Healthcare as the naming sponsor of The Grand Opera House,” said Mercer University President William D. Underwood. “It brings together two iconic organizations that make significant contributions to the quality of life for residents of Central Georgia.”
The Grand Opera House, which opened in 1905, has long been one of Macon’s cultural landmarks. Originally one of the largest and most advanced theatres in the Southeast, it continues to be the home of Broadway in Central Georgia and the Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra. The new name reflects a deepening connection between the arts and the healthcare provider, reinforcing Piedmont’s commitment to the community.
“The arts are an often-overlooked component of overall wellness and the mental health of our community,” said Stephen J. Daugherty, CEO of Piedmont Macon. “The arts spark imagination and foster a sense of inclusiveness and connectivity, which perfectly align with our core values at Piedmont.”
The theatre’s Executive Director Frank Wood added, “Piedmont is a perfect partner for The Grand’s history as a cherished community treasure. The energy around The Grand this season will make our shows a must-see experience.”
The renaming of The Grand comes just ahead of an exciting season of performances. The Genesis of Macon Broadway Series will kick off in February 2025 with Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, followed by Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock ‘N’ Roll in March, and Pretty Woman The Musical in April. In addition to Broadway performances, the Macon-Mercer Symphony Orchestra will hold concerts throughout the 2024-2025 season, including a special October 21 premiere featuring “Lincoln Portrait” by Aaron Copeland, narrated by Mayor Lester Miller and former mayors.
With its new name and partnerships, The Piedmont Grand Opera House is poised to continue its legacy as a cultural hub for the Middle Georgia community.
