by Ezabelle Janssen, Senior Staff Writer
BILOXI (GG) — The glow of the marquee returned to downtown Biloxi Saturday evening as the historic Biloxi Saenger Theatre welcomed the community back through its doors for the first time in years.
For generations, the Saenger has been more than a theatre. It has been a gathering place, a stage for local talent, a backdrop for treasured memories, and a landmark woven into the cultural fabric of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. On Saturday, June 6th, community members gathered once again beneath its iconic chandelier to celebrate the theatre’s official grand reopening and witness “The Homecoming: A Celebration.”
The reopening marks a new chapter for the Saenger, thanks to the efforts of Encore Saenger, the volunteer-led organization contracted by the City of Biloxi to operate the theater. For Encore Saenger President Matthew Marvar, seeing the theater alive again has been both emotional and rewarding.
“It’s a really good feeling inside,” Marvar said. “I’ve been smiling ear to ear for the past couple of weeks.”
Marvar assembled the Encore Saenger team last September, bringing together a group of community-minded volunteers who shared both a passion for the arts and practical business experience. Together, they committed countless hours to bringing the beloved venue back to life.
“All of us are volunteers,” Marvar explained. “None of us are getting paid to be on a board seat. We’ve given up all of our spare time to come here and do this. We do it for the love of this beautiful gem of the Gulf Coast.”
That phrase, “Gem of the Gulf Coast,” has followed the Saenger throughout its long history.
Since opening in 1929, the theater has served as one of the Coast’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Its grand architecture, ornate details, and rich history have made it a destination for performers and audiences alike. Over the decades, countless productions, concerts, recitals, and community events have taken place beneath its historic ceiling.
However, preserving a building approaching its 100th birthday did not come without challenges.
In March 2018, city leaders announced the closure of the 88-year-old theatre for long-overdue restoration work. Fast forward to today, and the theatre is once again filled with music, applause, and anticipation.
Saturday’s grand reopening celebration honored both the venue’s history and the people who helped shape it. Directed by Anthony Starcher with musical direction by Sandy Starcher, “The Homecoming: A Celebration” featured former cast members from productions spanning five decades of Saenger history, accompanied by the Biloxi Civic Orchestra.
The evening served as a tribute to the performers, volunteers, staff members, and community supporters who have passed through the theatre’s doors over the years. With a special memorial presentation that honored beloved Gulf Coast figures whose contributions helped make the Saenger what it is today.
For Gulf Coast School of Performing Arts owner, Elaine Kulick, returning to the Saenger felt like coming home, “We were at the Saenger Theatre for many years before they closed down,” Elaine said. “We’re just so thrilled to be back in this beautiful Saenger Theatre.” The excitement was evident as students prepared to take the stage once again. “I haven’t stopped smiling,” she said. “I’m just so happy that Encore Saenger has got it back up and running again. It just brings joy to so many people.”
For many local performers and arts organizations, the reopening represents more than just another venue. It restores an affordable and accessible stage where community productions can thrive.
Marvar said one of Encore Saenger’s primary goals is ensuring the theatre remains a place where local talent can continue to perform. “We want to be able to have moderately priced shows that local people can afford,” he said. “This used to be a staple for the local community, and we’re definitely wanting to bring that back for everyone.”
The reopening would not have been possible without the volunteers who spent countless hours cleaning, preparing, and restoring the theater ahead of opening day. Community members worked behind the scenes to ensure every detail was ready, helping usher the Saenger into its next era while preserving the character that makes it special.
Plans are already underway for future performances, concerts, community productions, private events, and special gatherings. Comedy hypnotist Gary Michaels and Jazz on the Coast are capping off this month. As restoration efforts continue, the organization hopes to build upon the theatre’s legacy while creating new memories for generations of Gulf Coast residents.
Photos by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette.
