Armstrong Auditorium is an historic performing arts venue in Edmond, Oklahoma. It opened in 1929 as the state’s first air-tight movie theater. Armstrong now hosts traveling productions, dance performances and concerts of classical music. The auditorium has also hosted many local events, including everything from pep rallies to graduations to rodeos to fairs and festivals. This article will explore the Armstrong Auditorium and its significance in Edmond’s history. The auditorium is located at14400 S Bryant Rd B, Edmond, OK 73034.
In the early days of silent movies, the State Theatre in Edmond, Oklahoma became the first air-tight movie theater in the nation. The State Theatre opened in 1921, operating with a seating capacity of 600 people. In 1929, the State Theatre was renamed Armstrong Auditorium. The original air-tight system was replaced with an air-suspension system in 1950, which was then replaced with an air-conditioning system in 1985. Armstrong Auditorium continued to operate as a movie theater until 1970. In 1972, it was converted into a performance venue. Armstrong now hosts traveling productions, dance performances and concerts of classical music.
Today, Armstrong Auditorium is a historical landmark in the state of Oklahoma. It is a popular tourist attraction, and hosts numerous events, such as concerts, fairs, and festivals. It also houses a museum that tells the history of the building. The auditorium hosts an average of 50 performances every year. These performances are offered at the venue’s three stages. The auditorium is owned by the City of Edmond, Oklahoma, and is operated by the Armstrong Auditorium Foundation. Armstrong Auditorium is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Armstrong Foundation is the organization that operates the auditorium under an Operating Agreement with the City of Edmond. Armstrong Foundation receives no tax dollars from the city or state of Oklahoma and relies solely on ticket sales and contributions. Armstrong Foundation operates Armstrong under a 99-year lease.
– 1916: Armstrong Theatre opens as the first air-tight movie theater in the nation.
– 1923: Armstrong Theatre undergoes a major renovation and becomes the first air-conditioned theatre.
– 1929: Armstrong Theatre reopens as the air-tight state theater in Oklahoma. The auditorium becomes the first air-tight movie theater in the nation.
– 1942: Armstrong Theatre reopens after a two-year renovation. The renovation expands the auditorium to 6,000 seats.
– 1970: The State Theatre closes its doors after a 50-year run. It is now used as a banquet hall.
– 1972: Armstrong Auditorium reopens as a performing arts venue. It is still operated by the same air-tight system that was installed in the 1920s.
– 1985: Armstrong Auditorium is air-conditioned.
– 2015: Armstrong Auditorium celebrates its 90th anniversary.
From I-35: Head west on I-35 and exit at Pennsylvania. Turn left and go west on Pennsylvania until you get to the stoplight at 121st. Turn right onto 121st. Go three blocks and you’ll see the auditorium on your left. From I-40: Head west on I-40 and exit at Pennsylvania. Turn right and go west on Pennsylvania until you get to the stoplight at 121st. Turn right onto 121st. Go three blocks and you’ll see the auditorium on your left. From I-44: Head north on I-44 and exit at Pennsylvania. Turn right and go west on Pennsylvania until you get to the stoplight at 121st. Turn right onto 121st. Go three blocks and you’ll see the auditorium on your left.
Anyone can sign up to perform at Armstrong. You don’t have to be a member of any performing arts group or have any experience performing before. Anyone who is at least 18 years old can sign up to perform at Armstrong. Click for more.
The Jazz Festival – Armstrong Auditorium hosts the annual Jazz Festival every August. The event brings together jazz greats, local musicians, and fans from around the world. Oklahoma City Fair – Armstrong Auditorium is one of the main venues for the Oklahoma City Fair. The fair showcases local and state agriculture and craftsmanship at this annual event. Next article…