Everything Old is New Again.
The Legacy Theatre building was originally dedicated on November 6, 1951 as the home of the Springfield Theatre Guild. Many of our local citizens contributed their time, energy, creativity and dollars toward the goal of creating a permanent home for theatrical productions that, until that time, had been presented in a variety of school halls and church basements. This facility was the realization of a dream of many, where hundreds of vibrant productions were staged until 2004. From which time the building remained dormant.
The abandoned building was purchased in April of 2011, and underwent massive renovations: roof repair, waterproofing, heating and cooling, plumbing and electrical, not to mention considerable cosmetic refurbishments.
The theatre reopened on July 15, 2011 with the delightful Broadway musical revue, “The Marvelous Wonderettes.” The theatre was re-dedicated with a ribbon cutting on November 6, 2011; exactly 60 years to the day from the original dedication.
The name “Legacy” was chosen to honor those individuals who dreamed of a venue for the theatrical arts, and worked to bring it to reality. You’ll see many of their names listed on the plaques that remain in the lobby. Our name also honors the countless others who shared their talents, both onstage and behind the scenes, and those who bought tickets and filled the auditorium with laughter and applause. That is the legacy upon which this building rests; which we now build upon, to create new performing arts experiences, new memories, and new friendships.
Bringing The Legacy Theatre to life has been accomplished by the hard work and talents of both professional tradespeople and an enthusiastic corps of volunteers. There have been flowers and calls and notes cheering the project and sharing memories of this building. We marveled as folks from shows-gone-by came bounding through the door saying, “We heard what you were doing, and thought you might need a hand.” We are touched by those who return for a performance, their eyes misty with memories of past experiences within these walls.
Open once again, the Legacy Theatre now welcomes plays and musicals, concerts and dance, comedy, film, and you.
Our Mission Statement
The Legacy Theatre is a non-profit organization established to provide a venue for the creation and presentation of quality arts programming that entertains, educates, challenges and inspires the central Illinois community through a varied program of theatre, music, film, literature, dance and children’s programming. The Legacy Theatre fosters an environment where creative exploration of the arts is embraced and nurtured in an atmosphere of support and respect.