Gillioz looks at history, prepares for reopening

The photo will be buried in a time capsule at the historic downtown theater and displayed inside, said Business Manager Rachel Wright.

Click here for a larger version of the photo.

Thursday night, four researchers working on a coffee table book about the Gillioz will put on a slideshow of vintage photos at 7 p.m. in the auditorium of the Springfield-Greene County Library Center, 4653 S. Campbell Ave. The research team will discuss its work and reveal interesting tidbits about the Gillioz, which was built in 1926 by Monett businessman M.E. Gillioz for $300,000.

Restoration of the Gillioz is just weeks from completion. In recent days, workers have cleaned vents and ducts, installed historic light fixtures and laid carpet, according to Nancy Brown, president of the Springfield Landmarks Preservation Trust. A ribbon-cutting ceremony has been scheduled for Friday, Oct. 6. That night, a book signing will be held in conjunction with First Friday Art Walk, Wright said.

The trust board has hired new staff members for the theatre, including Technical Director Jerry Mac Johnson, House Manager Adela Generally and intern Stephanie Szurek.

The Gillioz is booking events. For more information, contact Wright at (417) 773-6228 or visit www.gillioz.org.

The Gillioz offers a mid-sized venue for film, live performances, business conferences, weddings and meetings.