Shreveport, Louisiana, September 16, 2025
News Summary
The Strand Theatre in downtown Shreveport is gearing up for its centennial celebration in 2025. Established in 1925, the theater has a storied history that includes vaudeville, silent films, and a commitment to inclusivity. The upcoming gala, designed to honor this milestone, will feature a cocktail buffet and live entertainment. The theatre has become an integral part of the Shreveport arts scene and operates as a nonprofit, relying on community support to maintain its legacy.
Shreveport, Louisiana – The Strand Theatre, an iconic performing arts center in downtown Shreveport, is set to celebrate its centennial in 2025. Originally opened on July 3, 1925, with a production of the operetta “The Chocolate Soldier,” the Strand has a rich history that includes vaudeville, silent movies, and a variety of musical performances. The theater was built by the Saenger brothers at a cost of nearly one million dollars, earning it the nickname “the million dollar theater.”
Throughout its century-long history, the Strand Theatre has stood out as a progressive establishment. It was among the first in Louisiana to allow patrons of all races entry during a time of segregation, sending a powerful message of inclusivity that resonates to this day. Currently led by Executive Director Jenifer Hill, who has dedicated 14 years to the theater’s restoration and maintenance, the Strand continues to serve as a cultural hub for the Shreveport-Bossier art community.
The theater underwent a significant restoration in the mid-1970s, costing approximately $9.5 million and taking seven and a half years to complete. After reopening in 1984, it became the venue for sold-out performances, including those by the Shreveport Symphony. As of 2020, the Strand Theatre announced it was debt-free, but the COVID-19 pandemic led to a 19-month closure, causing substantial impacts on revenue and operations.
A fascinating aspect of the Strand includes its architectural features, such as three original chandeliers, with the central one being notably heavy and hand-cranked. The theater has taken steps to ensure security, including motion detectors and burglar alarms. Additionally, local ghost stories contribute to the theater’s mystique; one popular tale involves the mysterious movement of a portrait of Jim Montgomery, one of its founders.
As part of ongoing efforts to maintain the facility, the Strand Theatre is planning fundraisers to address the need for a main curtain replacement and other maintenance work. The theater hosts a diverse range of events, from performances to rentals for weddings and corporate parties, aiming to reflect the needs of the community it serves.
To commemorate its centennial, the Strand will host a gala named “Once in a Centennial” on September 20, 2025. The event will feature a cocktail buffet, an open bar, and live entertainment, with tickets priced at $100 in honor of the theater’s 100-year history. The Strand has remained a vital part of the local art scene, regularly hosting Broadway productions and programming events that span multiple genres from comedy to classics like “The Nutcracker.”
Community support is vital for the theater’s operations, as it functions as a nonprofit entity. Ticket sales and donations play a crucial role in sustaining its activities while promoting downtown Shreveport as a safe and accessible space for patrons. The Strand Theatre continues to aim for inclusivity and engagement with its programming reflecting the diverse interests of its audience.
FAQ
When did the Strand Theatre open?
The Strand Theatre opened on July 3, 1925.
What is the significance of the Strand Theatre’s centennial celebration?
The centennial celebration in 2025 marks 100 years of entertainment and cultural contribution in Shreveport, Louisiana.
What events does the Strand Theatre host?
The Strand Theatre hosts a variety of events including musical performances, theater productions, and rentals for weddings and corporate parties.
How can people support the Strand Theatre?
Community support through ticket sales, donations, and participation in fundraisers is essential for the non-profit theater’s operations and maintenance.
Key Features of Strand Theatre
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Downtown Shreveport, Louisiana |
| Opening Date | July 3, 1925 |
| Cost of Construction | Nearly $1 million |
| Restoration Cost | $9.5 million |
| Significant Events | Host of sold-out performances by the Shreveport Symphony and other events |
| Upcoming Gala Date | September 20, 2025 |
| Ticket Price for Gala | $100 |
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Additional Resources
- The Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: Strand Theatre
- KTBS
- Google Search: Strand Theatre Shreveport
- KSLA
- Google Scholar: Strand Theatre Shreveport
- KTAL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Strand Theatre
- KSLA
- Google News: Strand Theatre
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
