The Capitol, managed by Warren County Public Library, strives to provide excellent service to our community through a variety of offerings. From free library events to private movie rentals and sold-out concerts, we love seeing people use this historic space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park?
While there is not a dedicated parking lot for The Capitol, parking is available around Fountain Square and in Stadium Park Plaza Parking Garage on College Street between 7th and 8th Avenues. The city of Bowling Green created a map of their locations (click “Parking Locations” below for PDF).
What if I cannot attend a show?
All sales are final, unless the show is cancelled. You may transfer your ticket to another person by forwarding them your email or text ticket confirmation. Refunds for cancelled shows do not include tax and fees.
How can I reserve accessible seating?
Accessible seating is reserved exclusively for patrons with accessibility needs and their companions. We highly recommend that guests who need accessible seating call 270.781.4882 ext. 403 for assistance. Regular office hours are Monday – Friday between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
How can I find out about upcoming events?
Bookmark our web site, follow us on social media or subscribe to our online newsletter HERE.
History
The Capitol has been an important part of the cultural fabric of Bowling Green for over 100 years. It had long been said that it began its life as a vaudeville house in the late 1890s, but deeper research shows that the property at 416 E. Main was listed as a saloon and restaurant at that time. The first picture show business to operate at this address, the Columbia Theatre, opened in 1911. The Capitol Theatre, managed by the Nashville-based Crescent Amusement Company, replaced the Columbia in 1921. In 1938, the building went through an extensive renovation and expansion. For many years, in addition to its primary role as a movie house, the downtown theater also hosted community events and leased space to local businesses and organizations.
Following a decline in use, the Capitol stopped showing movies in 1972. After remaining largely vacant for a number of years, the building was purchased in 1977 by a visionary group of citizens formerly known as the Bowling Green-Warren County Arts Commission. Following a $1.3 million renovation, the Capitol Arts Center reopened its doors to the community in September 1981 and was managed by the Capitol Arts Alliance for 30 years.
In July 2000, a $6.7 million grant from the Commonwealth of Kentucky was given to fund the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, Inc. (aka SKyPAC), a facility for larger performing arts productions than the Capitol Arts Center could host. SKyPAC managed the Capitol until 2021. Warren County Public Library began leasing the building the spring of that year and is its current manager.
The library uses the auditorium for community events, including library presentations, lectures, performances, and free movies. The space is also rented out to outside groups, concert promoters, and producers.