Fox Theater

The Fox Theater, now known as the Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox, is a magnificent historic Art Deco building located in Spokane, Washington, USA. Built in 1931, the theater was originally part of the extensive movie empire of the Fox Film Corporation, founded by film producer William Fox. Today, this iconic venue serves as a concert hall and is the home of the Spokane Symphony, continuing to delight audiences with cultural events.

The theater was designed by the prominent architect Robert C. Reamer, who is also known for designing the Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park. The building is a striking example of the Art Deco architectural style, characterized by modernist and extravagant elements. One of the theater's most impressive features is its intricate wall murals and ceiling, executed in the signature Art Deco style. The luxurious interior design was the work of Anthony Heinsbergen, one of the most sought-after Hollywood interior designers of the era.

The Fox Theater is not just an architectural monument but also an important cultural hub for Spokane. Following its restoration, it accommodates approximately 1,600 spectators (the hall originally seated 2,300) and functions as a mid-sized venue for diverse performances in the heart of the city. Visiting this theater is an opportunity not only to enjoy a concert or show but also to touch the history of American cinema and early 20th-century architecture.

To find up-to-date information about the Fox Theater in Spokane, view the performance schedule, and check attendance requirements, it is recommended to visit its official resources. Below are the available contact details.

A visit to the Fox Theater in Spokane opens up a world of diverse cultural events. First and foremost, the theater is home to the Spokane Symphony, providing a wonderful opportunity to enjoy high-class symphonic concerts. Additionally, the theater's schedule is regularly updated with other interesting events, including concerts of various musical genres, film screenings, and theatrical productions, offering something for every taste.

The unique architecture and magnificent interior of the Fox Theater deserve special attention. Walking through its halls, you can admire the impressive murals by Anthony Heinsbergen that decorate the lobby walls, mezzanine, and lounges. These fantastic paintings depict an evolution from underwater flora to fairytale landscapes with castles. The enormous Art Deco light fixtures shaped like sunbursts, the wall paintings, and the grand staircase leading to the balcony are equally captivating. It is a true feast for the eyes for lovers of art and architecture.

After a massive restoration completed in 2007, the Fox Theater became even more comfortable for visitors thanks to an expanded foyer. It is important to note that the theater also serves as a venue for several other local performing arts organizations. This ensures an even greater variety of cultural events and makes it a true center of attraction for art enthusiasts in Spokane, offering a rich program throughout the year.

The Fox Theater is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane at 1001 W. Sprague Ave. It sits between Sprague and 1st Avenues on Monroe Street, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city. This central location ensures convenient access for both locals and tourists wishing to enjoy the performances or the architecture of this historic site.

The theater can be reached by public transport. Routes of the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) pass near the Fox Theater. Specifically, you can take bus routes No. 6, 20, 43, 60, 61, and 66. This is an excellent option for those who prefer not to use a personal car or taxi, allowing for easy trip planning.

If you prefer to travel by taxi or private car, the theater's central location means the trip from most parts of Spokane won't take long. Given that the theater is in a busy part of the city, it's a good idea to plan your route and possible parking spots in advance if you are driving your own vehicle.

The Fox Theater in Spokane is more than just a building; it's a true legend whose history began during the challenging times of the Great Depression. Its construction, initiated by Fox West Coast Theaters, cost a then-impressive sum of $1 million. The grand opening took place on the evening of September 3, 1931, and was a massive event for the city. Searchlights illuminated the night sky, and the streets were filled with approximately 30,000 residents celebrating both Spokane’s Golden Jubilee and the opening of the new theater.

The premiere night was marked by the presence of true cinema stars. Celebrities and movie actors greeted the enthusiastic crowd from the theater roof before the audience could enjoy the world premiere of the film "Merely Mary Ann." Among the guests of honor were the film's lead actors, Charles Farrell and Janet Gaynor, as well as famous personalities like Anita Page, Will Rogers, and the young star Rosemarie. This event became one of the most vibrant cultural milestones in Spokane's history.

Originally, the Fox Theater was designed as both a movie palace and a venue for various live performances. It was equipped with everything needed: an orchestra pit, dressing rooms, a stage with a proscenium arch, a fly loft for scenery, and even a complex Wurlitzer organ. However, despite the original plans, live performances gradually ceased within two years as it became clear that cinema had triumphed over vaudeville. The theater continued to function as a cinema until September 21, 2000, when its doors closed following a screening of the film "Gladiator" starring Russell Crowe.

Fortunately, the theater's story didn't end there. After a thorough and complete restoration, the Fox Theater reopened its doors in November 2007, but in a new capacity—as a magnificent concert hall. Today, it continues to delight Spokane residents and guests with diverse musical and cultural programs, all while preserving the spirit of its rich history.

When planning a visit to the Fox Theater in Spokane, you should allow for 1 to 2 hours for a general overview. This time is usually enough to view the magnificent Art Deco architecture, admire the interiors, and soak in the historical atmosphere of this iconic landmark.

If your visit includes a theater tour—which might cover the building's history, its restoration, and behind-the-scenes life—it's worth setting aside about 1.5 to 2 hours. Such tours often offer a deeper dive into the details and allow you to see what is usually hidden from the regular audience.

Of course, if you plan to attend a performance or concert at the Fox Theater, your total stay will be significantly longer and will depend on the duration of the event itself. In this case, add at least another 2-3 hours for the show and intermissions to your sightseeing time.

The opening hours of the Fox Theater in Spokane depend directly on the schedule of performances and events. Since the specific hours for the box office or the theater itself can vary, it is highly recommended to check the latest information on upcoming events and their start times on the official Fox Theater website or by contacting the box office directly. This will provide you with the most current information for planning your visit.

To attend plays, concerts, or other events at the Fox Theater, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular productions, as they can sell out quickly. Generally, theaters of this caliber operate year-round, offering a diverse program, but access to events is via tickets for specific dates and times.

Visiting the Fox Theater in Spokane is undoubtedly a highlight. However, to make your trip even more fulfilling and memorable, it's worth taking some time to explore the surroundings of this famous landmark. Often, it's the short walks through nearby streets, visits to local parks, or stops at neighborhood spots that allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and discover something new and unexpected.

Exploring the area around the Fox Theater can provide many pleasant impressions, from cozy cafes and restaurants to other interesting cultural sites or scenic locations. This is a wonderful opportunity to expand your itinerary and see Spokane from different perspectives, complementing your cultural program with new discoveries.