Historic Biloxi Saenger Theatre reopens, marking long-awaited comeback for Gulf Coast landmark

BILOXI, Miss. (WXXV)- The Biloxi Saenger Theatre finally made its encore over the weekend.

After years of anticipation and countless restoration efforts, the historic Biloxi Saenger Theatre has officially reopened, welcoming the community back to a landmark filled with amazing performances and memories. Encore Saenger Board President Matthew Mavar said, “Local theatre groups and local dance companies, we wanted to make sure they still had a home. We knew that if a bigger company came in and took it over, they would probably dump $10 million into the building, but we did know that ultimately that would affect local consumers. The price range of tickets, and the price range for concessions would have skyrocketed. We wanted to make sure the affordability stayed within everybody for the local community.”

The Saenger first opened its doors in 1929, quickly earning the title of the ‘Gem of the Gulf Coast,’ before it closed in 2018 due to safety issues. Encore Saenger Board Treasurer Jordan Church said, “It’s been a lot of hard work. A lot of people came together for a common mission to get the theatre opened. Working hand and hand with the city and their support, it just feels surreal. It’s amazing to have it open and to see people in here again.”

The grand reopen celebration, ‘The Homecoming,’ featured former cast members and new performers sharing the stage through song, dance, and tributes to more than five decades of Saenger history.

The wait is finally over and now the community can once again gather under the lights of the Saenger Theatre to create new memories.