With gilded mascarons guarding the stage framed in an ornate proscenium beneath a glittering chandelier, the historic Landers Theater has been the glamorous home to countless Springfield performing artists for more than a century. The intricate craftsmanship exceeds the prestige of many professional theaters from Chicago to Broadway. A passion for this distinctly beautiful space inspired historian Kara DeBacker to author THE LANDERS: BIOGRAPHY OF A THEATER. Here are five intriguing insights to give you a sneak peek before picking up your copy!
- The ambitious four-story theater was conceived between a Canadian lumberjack and a piano salesman who partnered to build the Springfield landmark. Landers Theater opened its doors September 18, 1909. And after more than thirty years without permanent residence, Springfield Little Theatre finally moved into the hallowed space in November, 1970. This year, dozens of professionals have worked tirelessly to restore the gorgeous details to their original grandeur ahead of the 90thEmerald Anniversary Season!
- Springfield has been uniquely blessed with this architectural gem, but its history holds both tragedy and triumph. A fire in 1920 threatened the entire structure, but the asbestos curtain kept the damage isolated and saved the building. Beyond its survival, the Landers Theater made history as the first location outside of Los Angeles and New York to broadcast a television program in color, showcasing its significance not only as a local cultural icon but also as a pioneer in the world of television.
- The Landers Theater has been a main character in the history of Springfield Little Theatre. THE LANDERS: BIOGRAPHY OF A THEATER features in depth profiles of SLT’s founders Bruce Lemmon and Kirk Denmark, as well as their teacher and advisor, Helen Johnson, who supported the teenagers’ pursuit of forming a Little Theatre. The group’s first performance was THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST in 1934 on Drury’s Campus. They revived the same show for their debut production at the Landers Theater when SLT made it their home in 1970.
- THE LANDERS: BIOGRAPHY OF A THEATER features never-before-seen photos and architectural plans from the Landers’ inception to completion. Among these special treats are historic documents and even vintage advertisements from eras past in the Landers history.
- Every book purchase will provide hours of entertainment for you and young artists in the community! Sales benefit Springfield Little Theatre’s Supported Theatre Experience for Young People of All Abilities. Established in honor of frequent SLT volunteer and crew member Adam DeBacker, the program provides direct support to young people with disabilities, ensuring that every child can fully participate in the magic of theatre education.
Order your copy today and be a part of preserving the legacy of The Landers Theater while supporting inclusive theatre education for all!
