Ironically, “The Theater Fire” band was set to play near Georgia Theatre

In what amounts to nothing more than an eerie coincidence, a band named The Theater Fire will be performing Friday night in Athens — just a few blocks away from the smoldering shell of the venerable Georgia Theatre.

The musical landmark, located on the corner of Lumpkin and Clayton streets in downtown Athens, was gutted by fire early Friday morning. The eclectic alt-country band out of Fort Worth, Texas will take the stage later tonight at Farm 255, said the club’s owner, Olivia Sargeant.

“It’s been really emotional for everyone in town,” said Sargeant of the Georgia Theatre blaze. “That The Theater Fire are playing the same night is just an unfortunate coincidence.”

It reminded some of a minor tempest involving an Athens band, I Am the World Trade Center, formed before the September 11 attacks on the Twin Towers.

Some critics falsely assumed the duo was capitalizing on the tragedy, and the band briefly shortened its name to “I Am the World …”. They’ve since reclaimed their original handle.

“The community is so ready to rally around the Georgia Theatre,” Sargeant said. “I’m sure in a few days there will be some sort of benefit concert organized.”

Georgia Theatre owner Wilmot Greene said he plans to rebuild, assuming his insurance will cover the costs.