A (Short) History of the Vox Theatre

Before it was the Vox Theatre Event Space, it was a 1940s talkie theater; and before the theatre amused audiences with full sound, it was a silent film theatre entertaining the growing population of the Rosedale neighborhood in Kansas City, Kansas.

In December 1922, Mr. T.L. Ricksecker spearheaded the construction of the brick building for $30,000 - about $461,000 in today's money. 

Fast forward to August 1940, when the theatre debuted as a "talkie", and renamed the Vox Theatre.  The owners touted a "newly remodeled" space, "new sound", "new upholstered seats"-- and Spencer Tracy flicks. 

In the early 1960s, small intimate theaters gave way to large drive-in theaters and the space was sold to Westport Heating and Cooling; the company used the space to manufacture sheet metal ductwork. The floor was filled in making one large, leveled room. . 

Eventually, the space transitioned into an antique car garage, and fitted with a garage door in the front of the space. 

In 2009, an architectural photographer purchased the space and completed full renovations to transform it into a photography studio, and eventually an event space. 

Today, the Vox Theatre Event Space is owned and operated by an all female team, and hosts thousands of people through its doors each year. 

The space is used for a variety of events, including live music shows, comedy stand up sets, large fundraisers, weddings, graduation parties, and small weekly company meetings. Nearing its 100th year in existence, the Vox Theatre Event Space will remain a staple of the Rosedale neighborhood for years to come.