Missouri History Museum

Since its restoration and re-opening in 1982, people from across the St. Louis region have enjoyed Broadway shows, family programs and concerts at The Fabulous Fox Theatre. Beloved by performers and audiences alike, the dazzling landmark is the crown jewel of Grand Center, St. Louis' arts and entertainment district.

To celebrate the silver anniversary of this beloved St. Louis landmark, the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park displayed artifacts, photographs and video that showcased the richness and variety of the art and entertainment this beautiful venue has provided for the St. Louis region and its residents. Artifacts included the theatre's original seat fabric; an usher jacket and hat; programs; fliers; tickets; part of a stained glass window and more.

The artifacts are from the personal collection of Mary Strauss. Strauss and her late husband, the real estate developer Leon Strauss, oversaw the restoration of the theatre. The artifacts were on display in the museum's Bank of America Atrium from September 7, 2007, through November 4, 2007. The display is sponsored by Fox Associates, L.L.C.

A restored and polished door pulls to the outer doors. History of the Fabulous Fox Theatre Designed in the 1920s in an eclectic style described as "Siamese Byzantine," the Fox Theatre originally opened its doors in 1929, when its owner, William Fox, showed silent films in the movie palace. Although opening receipts promised good fortune, the Great Depression quickly put an end to the owner's dreams of wealth.

After nearly 50 years in business, the theatre, in need of both a major restoration and new entertainment programming, closed its doors in 1978. Three years later, Fox Associates, L.L.C. purchased the property and began a one-year restoration that returned the theatre to its original state of magnificence. Since 1982 The Fabulous Fox has been the site of an array of live entertainment. Today, Fox Associates, L.L.C., operates the 4,500-seat theatre. Since its 1982 resurrection, The Fabulous Fox Theater has become one of the highest grossing theatres in the country.