The Fox–Watson Theater Building, located in downtown Salina, Kansas, has a rich history that reflects its transformation from a movie theater to a performing arts venue. Opened in 1931, this iconic building has witnessed significant changes over the decades, adapting to the evolving entertainment landscape. Its journey from a bustling movie house to a cherished cultural landmark is a testament to its enduring legacy.
The Birth of a Movie Theater
The Fox–Watson Theater opened its
doors on February 23, 1931, thanks to the efforts of Winfield W. Watson, a local businessman and banker. Watson's vision was to bring a state-of-the-art movie house to Salina, and he donated the land for its construction. The theater was built by Fox West Coast Theatres at a cost of $400,000, a significant investment at the time. Designed by the Boller Brothers, an architectural firm from Kansas City, Missouri, the theater featured an Art Deco style with Spanish Colonial influences, evident in its terracotta facade and intricate interior plasterwork.
The theater's opening night was marked by the screening of the Western film "Not Exactly Gentlemen," starring Fay Wray. For decades, the Fox–Watson Theater operated as a first-run movie house, providing entertainment to the local community and becoming a beloved fixture in Salina.
Decline and Closure
By the 1980s, the Fox–Watson Theater faced challenges as the entertainment industry evolved. Dickinson Theatres, the then-owners, operated it as a discount theater, but competition from mall-based cinemas led to its closure in August 1987. The theater's decline was a reflection of the broader changes in the movie industry, where multiplexes and modern facilities began to dominate.
In 1989, Dickinson Theatres donated the building to the city of Salina. This gesture marked the beginning of a new chapter for the theater, as the community sought to preserve its historical significance and find a new purpose for the iconic structure.
Revival as a Performing Arts Venue
The transformation of the Fox–Watson Theater into the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts began with a dedicated non-profit group's efforts. Over several years, they raised $3.2 million for renovations, breathing new life into the historic building. The theater reopened on March 8, 2003, with a mission to "enrich, educate, and entertain" the community.
Today, the Stiefel Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including concerts by the Salina Symphony. Its programming aims to offer a diverse range of entertainment that appeals to a broad audience. The theater's revival as a performing arts venue has ensured its continued relevance and importance in Salina's cultural landscape, preserving its legacy for future generations.
