About the Project
Built in 1949, The Fox Theatre in Atchison, Kansas, stands as a remarkable example of the Streamline Moderne style with its distinctive curved terra-cotta entrance, neon cove lighting, and elegant banding. Constructed as a large single auditorium with a balcony, the Fox Theatre’s main auditorium was split into a twin theater and the main entry with the concession stand was moved in the 1990s.
In 2017, Theatre Atchison took on the ambitious task of restoring the Fox Theatre to its former glory. The renovation project involved a meticulous transformation, merging Old Hollywood glamour with modern-day comfort and amenities. The historic narrow vestibule and lobby with curvilinear features were reinstated as the main entry, featuring a centered ticket booth flanked by glass and metal doors.
The main auditorium underwent a comprehensive overhaul, including a redesigned seating layout with wider spaces, deep vegan leather seats, and improved legroom. The historic quatrefoil feature under the balcony was also restored. The balcony was reconfigured with expanded seat widths and legroom, and acoustic challenges were met with a new multi-wall separation and a projection booth for Theatre 1. Theatre 3, originally a live performance stage, was transformed into a black box theater with full recliner seating, available for private events or corporate meetings. The interior finishes reflect a nostalgic color palette with statement black, classic gold, rich reds, and Theatre Atchison’s branded colors.
