The Fox Theatre: A St. Louis Gem

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of downtown St. Louis, the historic Fox Theatre stands as an enduring testament to the city's vibrant arts scene and architectural grandeur. With its opulent interiors, breathtaking performances, and rich history, the Fox has captivated audiences for generations and continues to be a beloved landmark in the heart of America's Midwest.

A Legacy of Entertainment

Opened in 1929 during the golden age of cinema, the Fox Theatre was originally a movie palace. Its grand opening featured the premiere of the film "The Great Gabbo," starring Erich von Stroheim. The theater quickly became a popular destination for St. Louisans, who flocked to see the latest films and vaudeville shows.

Over the years, the Fox has hosted an astounding array of performers, from legendary singers like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland to beloved comedians like Bob Hope and Lucille Ball. In addition to film screenings, the theater has also been the venue for countless Broadway musicals, ballets, and symphony concerts.

Architectural Splendor

Designed by renowned theater architect C. Howard Crane, the Fox Theatre is a masterpiece of Art Deco design. Its opulent interiors feature intricate plasterwork, gleaming chandeliers, and vibrant murals. The theater's grand staircase, with its sweeping curves and ornate balustrades, is particularly noteworthy.

The auditorium, with its 4,500 seats, is a sight to behold. The proscenium arch, adorned with elaborate carvings, frames a stage that has hosted some of the world's most renowned performers. The ceiling, painted with swirling clouds and celestial bodies, creates the illusion of an endless sky.

A Community Treasure

Beyond its architectural splendor and artistic offerings, the Fox Theatre is a beloved community treasure. It has played a vital role in the cultural life of St. Louis for nearly a century and continues to attract audiences from across the region.

The theater is home to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, which presents a full season of classical music concerts. The Fox also hosts touring Broadway shows, ballet companies, and other special events. In addition, the theater offers a variety of educational programs and community outreach initiatives.

Economic Impact

The Fox Theatre is not only a cultural gem but also an economic engine for St. Louis. According to a study by the Regional Arts Commission, the theater generates over $100 million in annual economic impact for the city.

The Fox Theatre employs over 500 people and supports countless other businesses in the surrounding area. Visitors to the theater spend money on dining, shopping, and other entertainment options, which benefits the local economy as a whole.

Transitions and Continuity

Throughout its history, the Fox Theatre has undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1974, the theater was purchased by the city of St. Louis and underwent a major restoration. The theater's grand staircase was added during this renovation, and the auditorium was enlarged to its current capacity.

In recent years, the Fox has received additional funding for upgrades and improvements. In 2015, the theater underwent a $43 million renovation that included the installation of new seats, lighting, and sound systems. These upgrades have ensured that the Fox Theatre remains a state-of-the-art performance venue.

Stories and Lessons

The Fox Theatre has been the backdrop for countless stories and memories over the years. Here are a few of our favorites:

• The Ghost of Mary: Legend has it that the Fox Theatre is haunted by the ghost of a young woman named Mary. Mary is said to have been a performer who died tragically in the theater in the 1930s. People have reported seeing Mary's ghost wandering the halls of the theater and even appearing on stage during performances.

• The Lost Suitcase: A few years ago, a group of tourists visiting the Fox Theatre accidentally left their suitcase behind. The suitcase contained their passports, money, and other valuables. To their surprise, when they returned the next day, the suitcase was still there, untouched. The theater staff had found it and kept it safe until the tourists returned.

• The Standing Ovation: One evening, during a performance of "Les Misérables," the audience was so moved by the performance that they gave the cast a standing ovation that lasted for over 10 minutes. The cast was so overwhelmed by the audience's response that they came back out for an encore, much to the delight of the crowd.

These stories remind us that the Fox Theatre is more than just a building; it is a place where magic happens. It is a place where dreams are realized, memories are made, and the power of the arts transforms lives.

Effective Strategies for Enjoying the Fox Theatre

To make the most of your visit to the Fox Theatre, here are a few effective strategies:

• Plan ahead: Check the theater's website or schedule to see what shows are coming up. Purchase your tickets in advance to ensure you get the best seats.

• Dress comfortably: You will be spending several hours in the theater, so dress comfortably. You may want to bring a sweater or jacket, as the theater can sometimes get cold.

• Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the theater and find your seats. This will help you avoid missing the beginning of the show and reduce stress.

• Be respectful: The Fox Theatre is a historic building and a place of entertainment. Please be respectful of the theater's staff and other patrons. Refrain from talking during the performance and turn off your cell phone.

• Enjoy the experience: Sit back, relax, and let the magic of the Fox Theatre transport you. You are in for a truly memorable experience.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make your visit to the Fox Theatre even more enjoyable:

• Take a backstage tour: The Fox Theatre offers backstage tours that give you a behind-the-scenes look at the theater's history, architecture, and operations. These tours are available for a small fee and are a great way to learn more about the theater.

• Visit the Fox Theatre website: The Fox Theatre's website is a great resource for information about upcoming shows, tickets, and special events. You can also find information about the theater's history, architecture, and educational programs.

• Follow the Fox Theatre on social media: The Fox Theatre is active on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Follow the theater to stay up-to-date on the latest news, events, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

• Sign up for the Fox Theatre email newsletter: The Fox Theatre sends out a regular email newsletter with information about upcoming shows, special events, and promotions. You can sign up for the newsletter on the theater's website.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when visiting the Fox Theatre:

• Don't bring food or drinks into the theater: Food and drinks are not allowed in the auditorium. You can purchase snacks and drinks in the theater's lobby or at nearby restaurants.

• Don't take pictures or videos during the performance: Photography and videography are not allowed during performances. This is to protect the copyright of the artists and to ensure that other patrons can enjoy the show without distractions.

• Don't talk during the performance: The Fox Theatre is a place to enjoy the performance, not to socialize. Please refrain from talking during the show so that others can enjoy the experience.

Conclusion

The Fox Theatre is an iconic landmark that has played a vital role in the cultural life of St. Louis for nearly a century. With its stunning architecture, world-class performances, and commitment to community outreach, the Fox Theatre is a true gem of the Midwest.

Whether you are a St. Louis native or a visitor to the city, make sure to experience the magic of the Fox Theatre. You will be glad you did.

Tables

Table 1: Fox Theatre Statistics

Table 2: Upcoming Fox Theatre Shows

Table 3: Fox Theatre Educational Programs