After two years of waiting and a complete $6 million makeover, the long-awaited Buckhead Theatre, formerly the Coca-Cola Roxy Theater, has officially re-opened its doors.

First opened in 1931 as a movie theater, the newly-renovated space has 2,500 seats and will host lectures, comedians, Broadway plays, public and private special events and concerts.

“The building has such an amazing history and has been central to Buckhead nightlife for 80 years,” says Charlie Loudermilk, Founder and Chairman of Buckhead-based Aaron’s Rents (now Aaron’s Inc.) who purchased the property a couple of years back. “I really wanted to keep the fun and lively spirit of this iconic space alive, yet update it to be a hotspot enjoyed by a variety of crowds. I want to bring excitement and life back to Buckhead!”

Led by Chip Pottinger, Construction and Redevelopment Manager for Buckhead Theatre, and Lisa deGolian, Loudermilk’s daughter and interior designer, the enhancements made to the 33,000 square-foot building are immense. Notable changes include: replacement of all plumbing, wiring and HVAC; the addition of a large projectable screen; a “green room” for performers; a catering kitchen; and a more distinct separation of the building’s two floors:

The large 5,000 square-foot lobby, adorned with leather couches, a large service bar and a dance floor, is an ideal gathering area for special events or a reception before a show and can even be used as sports bar. Elaborate doorways invite patrons from the lobby into the 8,000 square-foot main theatre, a two level space (orchestra and balcony).

The facility is being managed by Novare Events and concert promoter Alex Cooley, whose experience includes more than 30 years of managing the Roxy, will serve as the Buckhead Theatre’s entertainment manager. The team doesn’t end there, Buckhead native and Athens club booker, Velena Vego will be booking all of the rock acts and Linda Kirwin will spearhead the Off Broadway offerings, plays and family entertainment.

Tickets are now on sale for concerts by Deer Tick and Dead Confederate on July 31 and Built to Spill on Aug. 9 through Ticketmaster.

For more information about the theatre visit www.thebuckheadtheatre.com, follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BuckheadTheatre or join the Facebook Fan Page.