The Fox Theatre: A St. Louis Architectural Wonder

Nestled in the heart of Downtown St. Louis, The Fox Theatre stands as an architectural masterpiece that has captivated audiences for nearly a century. With its opulent interiors, stunning performances, and rich history, The Fox Theatre is a must-see destination for any visitor to the city.

A Historical Landmark

The Fox Theatre opened its doors on September 28, 1929, a time of great economic prosperity and architectural innovation. Designed by renowned architect C. Howard Crane, the theatre was built as a lavish movie palace and vaudeville venue. Its grandiose facade, modeled after the Paris Opera House, features ornate carvings, towering columns, and a vibrant color scheme.

The Fox Theatre's Grand Opening

The Fox Theatre's grand opening was a star-studded affair that attracted celebrities such as Will Rogers, Gloria Swanson, and Mary Pickford. The event was broadcast live on the radio, showcasing the theatre's state-of-the-art sound system and opulent decor.

The Fox Theatre's Early Years

In its early years, The Fox Theatre was a popular destination for moviegoers and vaudeville enthusiasts. The theatre hosted silent films, live performances, and stage shows, including the Marx Brothers, Judy Garland, and Bob Hope.

Architectural Highlights

The Fox Theatre is renowned for its opulent interiors that blend various architectural styles, including Art Deco, Renaissance Revival, and Moorish Revival.

The Grand Foyer

The Grand Foyer is the theatre's grand entrance hall, featuring a soaring 45-foot ceiling, intricate chandeliers, and marble walls. It serves as a gathering place for patrons before and after performances.

The Auditorium

The Auditorium is the heart of The Fox Theatre, boasting 4,500 seats arranged in a horseshoe shape. The proscenium arch is decorated with elaborate carvings and stained-glass windows, while the ceiling features a magnificent fresco of the Zodiac.

The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ

The Fox Theatre houses a Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, one of the largest and most elaborate theatre organs in the world. With over 4,000 pipes, the organ can produce a wide range of sounds, from delicate melodies to thunderous crescendos.

World-Class Performances

The Fox Theatre is home to a wide variety of performances, including Broadway musicals, touring shows, concerts, and dance productions.

Broadway at The Fox

The Fox Theatre is one of only a few venues outside of New York City to host touring Broadway shows. Recent productions have included "Hamilton," "The Lion King," and "Wicked."

Concerts and Special Events

The Fox Theatre also hosts a variety of concerts and special events, featuring artists from all genres. Past performers have included Elton John, Taylor Swift, and Foo Fighters.

Preservation and Restoration

Over the years, The Fox Theatre has undergone several renovations to maintain its grandeur. In 1982, the theatre was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural significance.

The Fox Theatre's First Renovation

The Fox Theatre's first major renovation took place in the 1980s, focusing on restoring the theatre's original grandeur. The renovation included cleaning and repairing the exterior and interior, restoring the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, and installing a new sound system.

The Fox Theatre's Second Renovation

In 2002, The Fox Theatre underwent a second major renovation that focused on improving the theatre's accessibility and safety. The renovation included adding ramps and elevators, expanding the restrooms, and upgrading the fire safety systems.

Tips and Tricks for Visiting The Fox Theatre

• Purchase tickets in advance: Tickets for shows and events can sell out quickly, so it's best to purchase them as far in advance as possible.
• Arrive early: Allow ample time to park and enter the theatre, especially for popular shows.
• Dress comfortably: The Fox Theatre is a large venue, so it's best to dress comfortably for extended periods of sitting.
• Take a guided tour: The Fox Theatre offers guided tours that provide a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of the iconic venue.
• Enjoy the atmosphere: The Fox Theatre is a beautiful and historic venue, so take some time to soak in the ambiance before and after the show.

Why The Fox Theatre Matters

The Fox Theatre is more than just a performance venue; it's a cultural landmark and a source of civic pride for St. Louis.

The Fox Theatre's Economic Impact

The Fox Theatre generates millions of dollars in economic activity for the St. Louis area each year. Patrons spend money on tickets, concessions, parking, and other services, supporting local businesses and creating jobs.

The Fox Theatre's Cultural Impact

The Fox Theatre plays a vital role in St. Louis's cultural landscape. By hosting a wide range of performances, the theatre exposes audiences to the best in entertainment and provides opportunities for artistic expression.

The Fox Theatre's Educational Impact

The Fox Theatre offers a variety of educational programs and outreach initiatives. These programs provide students and community members with opportunities to learn about the arts, theatre history, and the behind-the-scenes operations of a live performance venue.

Conclusion

The Fox Theatre is a stunning architectural landmark that has played a central role in St. Louis's cultural and entertainment landscape for nearly a century. With its world-class performances, opulent interiors, and rich history, The Fox Theatre is a must-see destination for any visitor to the city.

Additional Information

• The Fox Theatre is located at 527 North Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63103.
• The theatre's box office hours are Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• For more information on The Fox Theatre, visit the official website at www.fabulousfox.com.

Tables

Table 1: The Fox Theatre's Architectural Highlights

Table 2: The Fox Theatre's Renovations

Table 3: The Fox Theatre's Economic Impact