Now is the time to “Take Your Seat”
The Missouri Theatre has been a mainstay in downtown Columbia for as long as most folks can remember. After much hard work to build this show palace, our community celebrated its opening on October 5, 1928. They gathered together for performances and movies and created memories that won't soon be forgotten. Just ask those who had their first date here, the students that stormed the doors after an MU football game, or the generations who have been inspired by great films and great music.
The Missouri Theatre in downtown Columbia has become a good friend to many, and through the years, more like family. A home away from home. And just like families and close-knit communities do in times of need, mid-Missourians rallied 'round their old friend when there was talk of gutting her and turning her into a multiplex. Thankfully, they saved her.
Times have changed and people come and go, but the Missouri Theatre has remained an integral part of our vibrant downtown. Time and wear and tear wore her down, and she was in need of much attention. She has been restored and renovated - for past, present, and future generations - however, your financial support is still in need to finish the project.
That time has finally come…
And you can help! You have an opportunity to make history with us and participate in the grand plan for restoration and renovation. This is your chance to create more memories. This is your chance to Take Your Seat.
The Missouri Theatre has been Columbia's gathering place for many years. From talented local groups to world-renowned performers, her history is rich. We're making history again. And you're invited to join us!
Beautiful new seats have been installed in the newly-restored and renovated Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts. By sponsoring one or more of these seats, you can participate in the restoration project and help ensure future generations have the best seats to enjoy the magic of the Missouri Theatre. Use your tax-deductible gift to personalize a seat for a loved one, friend, company, an organization or yourself! An engraved brass plate, bearing the name of the individual or organization you choose to honor, will be recessed in the arm of the seat you choose to sponsor.
Now that the theater has been restored, patrons are sitting in comfortable, attractive, quiet new theater seats and enjoying a state-of-the-art facility.
The newly restored and renovated Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts offers:
- Restored historically-accurate facade
- Historically-restored performance auditorium with state-of-the-art sound & lighting and a new scenic design shop
- New Columbia Art League Gallery
- Expanded Grand Foyer complete with ADA elevator balcony service
- New Missouri Theatre Lounge on the mezzanine level
- Roof-top reception area
- Expanded modern restroom facilities on first floor and new second floor
- Expanded artist hospitality and dressing room area
- Renovated retail space
- New administrative offices
The Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts is dedicated to the availability and accessibility of the cultural arts in mid-Missouri by:
- Providing an artistic home base for the visual and performing arts - produced by national, regional and local art organizations and volunteers.
- Providing arts education for the community's youth and adults.
- Preserving the community's cultural heritage within the confines of the historic Missouri Theatre.
- Enhancing downtown Columbia's economic base.
"Take Your Seat" is an important project in our capital campaign for the Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts restoration and renovation. If we can "sell out the house" and find sponsors for the 1,218 seats, we will raise more than $820,000 for the capital campaign.
Download: Click here for the "Take Your Seat" Order Form
Your contribution is tax-deductible in accordance with the law. You will receive a tax credit letter by January 31st, the year following your donation. Thank you for your generous support of the Missouri Theatre Center for the Arts!