Page 28 - July 2017 inLeague and Conference Program
P. 28
WALLIS ANNENBERG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
BEVERLY HILLS, CA
INTIMATELY 90210
restored theAters see suCCess, But
Continue to fACe ChALLenges
three historiC theAters AdApt to needs of the times
By Jan Biles, the topeKa capital-Journal
The Stiefel Theatre in Salina has a lot in common with the Jayhawk in Topeka.
Both theaters were built by designers Carl and Robert Boller — the Jayhawk in August 1926;
the Stiefel in February 1931. Both were described as luxurious movie and live performance
palaces, and both were cooled by refrigerated air.
The Art Deco-style, 1,287-seat Stiefel cost $400,000; the ornate 1,500-seat Jayhawk, also
$400,000. Both theaters would become cornerstones in downtown retail districts and later
close as entertainment trends moved toward drive-in and multiplex theaters, television and
videos.
The Stiefel, however, has seen a rebirth — something the Jayhawk also hopes to achieve.
“Local citizens who knew the history and story of (the Stiefel) got together, and they raised
money for an authentic and historic renovation,” said Jane Gates, executive director of the
Stiefel Theatre.
PAGE 26| INLEAGUE League of Historic American Theatres
