Mercer purchases, renames historic downtown Macon theater. What we know.

The Capitol Theatre is set to have new management and a new name after Mercer University purchased it, the college announced Friday.

The Capitol Theatre will now be known as the “Robins Financial Capitol Theatre.” Mercer purchased it in partnership with Robins Financial Credit Union, the university said.

According to Mercer University Director of Media Relations Jennifer Fairfield-Williams, Mercer acquired the theater in December in a “bargain sale” from previous owner, Wes Griffith.

Griffith — who helped restore the theater in 2006 and has operated it since 2014 — was looking to sell the building last year, Fairfield-Williams said. NewTown Macon approached Mercer about purchasing and operating the theater.

The theater will continue to offer the concerts and programming Macon theater-goers have enjoyed for years, while also using the space for student performances, the college said.

The theater will function as a learning lab for students in Mercer’s forthcoming music production and music business degree programs, and continue to be available for special event rentals.

“The University is pleased to preserve this important historic performing arts venue in downtown Macon, and we are grateful to Wes Griffith for his stewardship of the theater for the last dozen years,” said Mercer President Dr. Penny L. Elkins in a press release. “We look forward to The Robins Financial Capitol Theatre continuing to contribute to downtown Macon’s vitality.”