When the Fox Theater opened on September 3, 1931 in Spokane, Washington, the 2,300-seat art deco venue was part of William Fox’s growing movie empire. Today, it’s known as the Martin Woldston Theater at the Fox, and it’s among the best restored movie palaces from the early age of the big screen.

Those efforts are the result of two large fundraising campaigns by the Spokane Symphony: the first to buy the building, which at the time was deteriorating and at risk of demolition, and the second to renovate the building. The theater reopened November 17, 2007 as the symphony’s new home.

Today, the theater hosts a range of concerts and films, in addition to performances by Spokane Symphony. Upcoming shows include Straight No Chaser, Orpheus and Eurydice by the Inland Northwest Opera, and Ashley McBryde.

On Friday, September 3, the theater is hosting an open house to celebrate its 90th birthday from noon until 4 p.m. It’s open to the public. Take self-guided tours, watch Spokane Symphony concerts on the big screen, enjoy a piece of cake, sign a birthday card, and share thoughts and memories about the theater.

Theater and symphony merchandise is also on sale, including a DVD about the theater’s history by KSPS Public Television and Jim Kershner’s book, The Sound of Spokane: A History of the Spokane Symphony. Kershner will be signing his books at the open house.

Masks are required.

The Martin Woldston Theater at the Fox is located at 1001 West Sprague Avenue. Get more information about the theater and events scheduled there at foxtheaterspokane.org. Also look for updates at the theater’s Facebook page.

Learn more about the history of the theater at historylink.org.