Grand Reopening
Grand Reopening
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More than 25 years after shutting its doors, the revived Wildey Theatre reopened on April 12, 2011 – 102 years after the original grand opening. A packed crowd was anxiously waiting to see the renovated theatre and to reminisce about the past. The evening included opening ceremonies and a video showing scenes from the renovation and interviews of local residents recalling their memories of the Wildey. Every woman in attendance was given a yellow rose, just as on that night 102 years before. Guests were treated to tours of the facility and free popcorn and soft drinks.
The city of Edwardsville spent $3 million renovating the historic theater to be used as a performing arts and entertainment center. The 100+ year old theatre now shines, providing state-of-the-art audio, lighting and projection systems. A new HVAC system was installed and carpeting was replaced. The marquee was renovated replacing neon tubing and a renovation of the lobby is being planned.
Special Events
Special Events
Weddings
Weddings
Concerts
Concerts
The theatre seats 326 people. Workers had found one of the seats from the 1930’s behind a wall. That old seat served as a model for the newer ones with the addition of cup holders. There is not a bad seat in the house with plenty of leg room and comfortable chairs. The theatre serves as a venue for classic movies, live entertainment, music tribute bands and concerts.
The lobby has niches for displays of historic artifacts from the building’s past. The Encore Wine Bar is located inside the theater. Snacks are available at the concession stand.
The Wildey was one of the host theaters for the St. Louis International Film Festival.
Event Spaces
Event Spaces
The theater hosts weddings, receptions, parties, business meetings and other celebrations.
2nd Floor
2nd Floor
2nd Floor
2nd Floor
3rd Floor
3rd Floor
3rd Floor
3rd Floor
Two special event spaces are available to rent. The Marquee Room on the second floor is 40’x31’ and features the original restored maple hardwood floors, tall windows and exposed brick. The space will accommodate 75 people for a seated meal or 125-150 for an open-house reception.
There is a larger space on the 3rd floor. This event room is 45’x45’, with wood floors, exposed brick walls and a beautiful domed ceiling. The room will accommodate 130 for a seated meal or 175-200 for an open house-reception. This room is accessible via stairs and elevators and has a private entrance just south of the theatre's main entrance.
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