Show business is an integral part of any major city, closely tied to its growth and development. As the economy expands and the population increases, so does the demand for quality entertainment. Today, we’ll explore the history and evolution of show business in Dallas. Read more about it on dallaski.com.
How Show Business Began in Dallas
The story of Dallas show business begins in the Deep Ellum district, which quickly became the creative hub for artists, musicians, writers, and entrepreneurs. It was here that both classical and avant-garde art flourished. By the 1980s and 1990s, Deep Ellum was home to more than 50 clubs and bars where legendary local and national bands performed — including The Reverend Horton Heat, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. The revival movement of that era transformed Deep Ellum into one of the most significant music hubs in the country.
The city’s first theaters also played a vital role in shaping Dallas’s entertainment scene at the turn of the 20th century. For instance, the Majestic Theatre, which opened in 1920, quickly became a center of the city’s cultural life, hosting operas, ballets, stage plays, and film screenings. During the first half of the century, Palace Theatre was another notable venue that enriched Dallas’s artistic landscape.
Overall, the growth of show business in Dallas was closely linked to the establishment of concert halls, museums, and art festivals. The region has produced remarkable talent, including The Dixie Chicks, Erykah Badu, and numerous rock and indie bands. By the 2000s, television and film production studios began emerging throughout Dallas, turning the city into a key entertainment center for the American Southwest.
Show Business in the Modern Era
As of 2025, Dallas and the entire state of Texas are experiencing an incredible rise in the entertainment industry. The region plays a major role in the development of the U.S. film and media sectors. In 2025, Texas allocated $500 million to stimulate film production — not only more than any other state, but also more than double the previous $200 million budget. This expansion was made possible by Senate Bill SB 22, which established the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Fund.
The film and video production market in Texas reached $761.8 million in 2025, accounting for 1.9% of the state’s GDP. According to the Texas Film Commission, the incentive program has already created 182,000 jobs and generated $2.52 billion in in-state spending. For every dollar invested in grants, the state receives $4.69 in return through economic impact.
Dallas also continues to host numerous large-scale events every year, including:
- Dallas International Film Festival — An annual event showcasing over 100 films from around the world and attracting around 60,000 attendees.
- State Fair of Texas — The largest fair in the state, featuring shows, concerts, competitions, and exhibitions that draw more than 2.5 million visitors annually.
- Dallas Observer Music Awards — The city’s premier music awards event, celebrating outstanding local musicians.
Deep Ellum Arts Festival — A vibrant celebration of local art, live music, colorful installations, and artisan markets in the Deep Ellum district. - Dallas Pride Festival — A bright, inclusive celebration of the LGBTQ+ community featuring parades, concerts, and exhibitions attended by tens of thousands of people.
That’s what regional show business looks like here in Dallas and across Texas. We hope this article was insightful and gave you a deeper understanding of how the entertainment scene continues to grow and thrive.