BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — The Saenger Theatre will reopen next month after a long closure, with Encore Saenger announcing two shows, including an opening night performance called “Homecoming.”
Organizers and crew members are preparing for June 6, the Saenger’s grand reopening.
“Basically, we’re going to be spanning 50 years of theater and shows that have been produced in this venue. So, there’s going to be a little bit of something for everyone,” said Anthony Starcher, director. “It’s going to be a lot of your favorite shows that you’ve seen on this stage, and for us, it’s bringing back a lot of memories.”
Nataliya Molsbee, a vocal coach and performer, will perform “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert during the show.
“I truly believe in our modern world, peace is a luxury, and I would like to dedicate this song to the world to have more peace in our modern world,” Molsbee said.
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Deep connections to the venue
Many involved in the show’s production have personal ties to the theater.
Rafe Oneal, an Encore Saenger board member and technical director, said his grandparents met at the venue in 1941. He saw his first show there in 1981 and has technical directed shows at the theater over the years.
“I’m so happy to be a part of bringing it back and taking it into the next century,” Oneil said.
Starcher said the first show he performed at the Saenger was “Evita,” alongside his two aunts and two cousins.
“I kind of got what they call ‘the theatre bug.’ I couldn’t leave it. So, I’ve been performing ever since. It changed my life, and it’s changed many performers’ lives here,” Starcher said.
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The building is nearly 100 years old.
“I want the City of Biloxi to be proud of what was saved on their behalf,” Oneal said. “Had the City of Biloxi not taken the stand and the supporters of this building not taken a stand, to do what needed to be done, none of us would be here. We would lose this beautiful architectural gem, and once it’s gone, it’s gone. You know, you can’t rebuild it.”
Tickets are on sale on the theater’s website. Encore Saenger is accepting volunteers for a cleanup day on May 16.
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