What Is the Oldest Movie Theater in Kansas?

Movie Theater|Theater

The oldest movie theater in Kansas is the Orpheum Theatre, located in Wichita. It opened its doors on August 12, 1922 and has been serving up entertainment to the area ever since. The theatre was built by the Schine Theater chain and has seen various changes over the years.

The building is a two-story brick structure with a steel frame. It has an ornate façade with terra cotta details and a grand lobby with marble flooring, plaster moldings, and an elaborate ceiling mural.

Inside is where the real magic happens. The theatre’s original 1,300 seats are still in place and have been meticulously maintained throughout the years.

The Orpheum Theatre has been showing movies for nearly 100 years now and is one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the United States. Over its history, it has served as a venue for vaudeville acts, musicals, silent films, talkies, and more recently blockbuster films. Its unique history adds to its charm.

The theatre remains popular today as a place to catch new releases but also to attend classic film screenings and special events like sing-a-longs or themed parties. Its small size allows for an intimate atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else.

The Orpheum Theatre is truly an iconic piece of Kansas history and culture. Its long-standing presence serves as a reminder of how far cinema has come since its earliest days.

Conclusion: The Orpheum Theatre in Wichita is officially recognized as the oldest movie theater in Kansas. This historic venue has been serving up entertainment since 1922 and continues to be a popular destination for new releases, classic films screenings and special events. With its unique history, intimate atmosphere and timeless charm it stands out as one of Kansas’ most beloved cultural landmarks.