BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — A nearly century-old landmark silent for years is about to find its voice again.
In less than two weeks, the Biloxi Saenger Theatre reopens.
“This is kind of the heart of downtown, in a way,” said Encore Saenger board member Boyce Deaton. “The blood is flowing now, but the heart isn’t beating, so I figured it needs to start beating again.”
Following years of neglect, the Biloxi Saenger went dark in 2018. Deaton, a lifelong performing arts enthusiast, is ready to see the theatre buzz with activity after a long silence.
“I started this and got involved with this because I believed that there was a groundswell and a passion for this place. If it’s there, it will succeed.”
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Encore Saenger is the nonprofit tasked with bringing the theatre back to life. The City of Biloxi handles the utilities and the maintenance; Encore is responsible for everything else.
“All [the city] gave us was a key.”
With the key in hand, Deaton and other volunteers got busy.
“There was both a lot of work to do, but way less than I thought was going to be required.”
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Walking through the doors today, visitors will find the Saenger looks much like it did when it first opened in 1929. Encore’s vision for the stage includes bringing in touring acts while giving performers on the Coast a place to shine.
“A big passion of mine is I want this stage to make money, but I also want it to be accessible for the public to utilize the space. There’s something about having a place this large with this much history that is alive and thriving that is going to be seen.”
Deaton hopes this performing arts center can replicate the success of the restored Saenger Theatres in Hattiesburg and Mobile.
“Every single business owner down here would love to envision what would happen if around 800 people, on a regular basis, converged in one spot in downtown and are released into downtown.”
New lights need to be installed along with finishing touches on the sound system, but the finish line is in sight. The Biloxi Saenger opens with a homecoming celebration on June 6.
“It’s going to be the culmination of over a decade of work. This has shown that the hunger for a community of belonging and a culture actually still exists.”
For those who’ve poured years into this revival, the possibilities feel endless.
“My long-range potential of this place is that we pack this place night after night after night.”
The homecoming grand reopening celebration on June 6 is bringing together casts of shows spanning 50 years of Saenger history.
For information on ticket prices and other shows planned for the Saenger, visit biloxisaenger.com.
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