Does Jayhawk Theatre have free WiFi?

Yes, Jayhawk Theatre has free WiFi.

Specialties

The Jayhawk Theatre is a historic and architectural marvel of early vaudeville theatres and jazz-era movie palaces. We're a non profit organization overseen by a volunteer group of local citizens and community leaders dedicated to returning the Jayhawk to its former grandeur. The goal is not only to restore this treasure because of its historical significance, but also to breathe new life and purpose into the Jayhawk by renovating it into a state-of-the-art live entertainment venue and film house. As has been true in a number of other American cities, the Jayhawk will play a significant role in the continued revitalization of Topeka's downtown. We're convinced that the support exists to transform the Jayhawk into a vibrant entertainment venue contributing to economic development and quality of life. It will take imagination and dedication, but it can be done. The time is now. The wait is over.

History

Established in 1926.

When the Jayhawk Theatre opened in 1926, it was a world-class architectural marvel, one of the most advanced theatres of its time, and a true Topeka treasure. For over five decades, Topekans were treated to first-class live performances and movies. However, changes in the habits of the public and the decline of downtown Topeka forced the theatre to close in 1976. In 1994, Jim Parrish purchased the theatre. Shortly thereafter, supporters of the theatre formed a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation called Historic Jayhawk Theatre, Inc. Jim and Nancy Parrish then deeded the theatre as a gift to Historic Jayhawk Theatre, Inc. For a number of years, progress on the restoration of the theatre proceeded slowly, but now, with revitalization of downtown Topeka underway, the time has come to complete the project and return the theatre to public use.

Meet the Business Owner: John H.

John has vast experience in historic theatre management and development. He raised $10.5 million for the restoration of the historic McPherson Opera House and served as executive director for 13 years. He believes that returning a downtown historic theatre to community use is the greatest driver of downtown revitalization. Having a full-time director is the next major step toward moving this project forward, and the timing could not be better as we celebrate our 90th birthday!