Historic Fox Theatre Still Going Strong

By Sarah Newberry
Staff writer
IG: @luv2dance43

The historic Fox Theatre transports people back in time to its original construction era. The building, built in 1931, is reflected in the various artworks within it. 

The decor is stunning and reflects the Art Deco style of that time. It took a lot of work and imagination to put the Fox Theatre into reality.

“Vernon Wiley built the Fox … he had this dream to build a grand theatre,” said Josh Davies, the principal director of the Fox Theatre.

The Fox Theatre was a popular attraction in the 1930s and beyond. It was the first Hutchinson attraction that had air conditioning.

 “This theatre was a really special theatre at the time for central Kansas and the area,” Davies said.

There was a lot of thought, imagination, and hard work put into the Fox Theatre. The architecture and design are really evident throughout the theatre.

“They started construction in 1929, and the theatre was finished and opened on June 8, 1931 … The architects were the Booer Brothers, who were very well-known architects across the Midwest for these grand movie palaces.” Davies said.

With a history spanning from the 1930s to the present, the Fox Theatre has evolved to offer a modern twist, featuring popular movies and a diverse range of shows.

“We host nationally touring music acts, comedians, some theatre … we are the state movie palace of Kansas, so we show a lot of movies,” Davies said.

How to decide what to show at The Fox Theatre?

“It’s like putting a big puzzle together,” Davies said.

It takes a lot of work and thought to put into it.

“I attend a national conference every year in New York, and there are literally hundreds and hundreds of agents and thousands upon thousands of artists … I meet with agents and look at rosters,” Davies said.

Davies intricately weaves together the events at the Fox, and magic is happening there. The Fox Theatre shows classic films and modern films.

The Fox plays a significant role in the community, making a notable impact, especially on young people.

“We have the By the Bus program, which is our educational component, so we do multiple events a year that allow school kids, mostly elementary and middle school students, to attend the events of the theatre, and they’re free to all of the schools in the community,” Davies said.

The Fox Theatre is suitable for all ages and groups, especially families.

“We try to make sure that there are a couple of family-friendly acts, things that would cater to families with children,” said Penny Bettles, the assistant director of The Fox Theatre.

The Fox Theatre offers something for everyone, providing a truly unique experience. It is breathtaking and takes you back in time. Some of the included movies are Christmas movies throughout December.

Tickets cost $5 each. The Fox Theatre will also be doing a Veterans Film Series in November. They will also be playing classic Halloween movies.

Anyone wanting to buy tickets can visit the box office or visit www.hutchinsonfox.com.

Views: 2