The Fox Theatre opened its door to the public on January 2, 1929 as The New Sequoia Theater by Ellis John Arkursh to show motion pictures. Touring Europe Arkush gathered all of his favorite architectural details from various venues to create the Moorish feel and style on the inside and the gothic feel on the exterior which was executed beautifully by the Reid Brothers of San Francisco.

Used mainly for motion pictures the theater was purchased by the Fox West Coast Chain only a few months after the opening and it continued to be used for movie attractions for a number of years until the theater was closed for renovations in June of 1950 for 4 months before re-opening its doors September of 1950 for live performances and shows.

After its renovations the theater became a popular venue for many incredible artists such as Vanessa Williams, Etta James, Neil Young, Melissa Ethridge, BB King and many others.