Fox Theatre
415 S. Main Street,
Joplin,
MO
64801
415 S. Main Street,
Joplin,
MO
64801
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The Fox Theatre opened in 1930 and closed in 1970. In 1974, it was purchased by the Central Assembly Church. It also hosts occasional screenings of old movies, wedding receptions and special events.
The building is intact and in great shape and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1990.
Contributed by
Chuck
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Recent comments (view all 7 comments)
Here is a 1950 article on the demise of the Fox architect:
LARRY P. LARSEN OF WEBB CITY DIES
Owner of Civic Theater and Designer of More Than 100 Playhouses
Succumbs Unexpectedly.
Larry P. Larsen, 57 years old, 119 North Ball street, died at 12:40 o'clock this afternoon in St. John’s hospital in Joplin. He had been ill three years,, but was not hospitalized recently until about 11 o'clock this morning.
He was an architect and contractor, having built more than 100 theaters in all parts of the country. He designed and built the Fox theater in Joplin and the Civic Theater and Civic Drive-In restaurant in Webb City. He also remodeled the Junior theater, which he owned, and the sanctuary of the Presbyterian church.
A 1986 view of the Fox Theater building in Joplin.
Here are postcard views of the Fox Theatre (click on image for closer view;
1936
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1937
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Was looking at the E. 5th St. & Virginia Ave backstreet view of the Fox Theatre on the Google Maps function. Theatre auditoriums that were located on side streets were generally plain with only common brick, but not the Joplin Fox. The Fox auditorium exterior is impressive with tapestry brickwork and massive stagehouse. Obviously there also had once been a Virginia Ave entrance.
Take a look for yourself!
This 1940 postcard aerial (photo center) view shows the Fox rooftop with its own private water tower.
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Does anyone know where I can find a picture of Larry?