Missouri Theater Upgrades
The Missouri Theater has been an iconic facility for St. Joseph for over 100 years. During the theater’s life span, it has evolved from the introduction of electricity, mechanical heating and cooling to exterior renovation and improvements. This evolution requires an attention to detail and a high level of respect for the historical features. As time marches on, so do the ever-changing requirements for use and enjoyment for all patrons who wish to visit.
The current Capital Improvements Program (CIP) half-cent sales tax provides the next phase in the theater’s life which will include two upgrades to the facility. The first project will be an upgrade to the aging stage lighting system. This will introduce energy efficient LED stage lights allowing for a greater control and viewing experience for the audience and use for the actors.
The second project is a much-needed facility improvement and will address a growing need of restroom expansion with ADA capabilities. One of the most challenging aspects of the theatrical experience at the facility is pre-show, intermission and post-production crowd management. With limited restroom capacity for both ADA usage and occupancy load, overcrowding in key pathways becomes not only a hazard, but a logistical issue which does not satisfy compliance. An important part of the experience is the opportunity to be able to utilize the facility to the fullest, if you have spent the intermission waiting to use the restroom, you reduce the experience by removing the concessions and mingling. To provide adequate restroom features, the city is currently in the design phase of a lower level expansion that will provide better ADA accessibility and expand on both the women’s and men’s restrooms.
