Historic Jayhawk Theatre

08/16/2026

On this day back in 1926, the Jayhawk Theatre opened its doors with Mantrap as its featured opening-day film. And today, we celebrate the Jayhawk Theatre’s 100th anniversary with behind-the-scenes tours as part of our Centennial Celebration.

For 100 years, the Jayhawk Theatre has been more than a building—it has been a stage for memories, music, stories, and community. From its grand opening to the generations who have walked through its doors, the Jayhawk remains a treasured landmark in the heart of Topeka.

Here’s to honoring its remarkable history and helping ensure its next century shines brighter than ever.

Happy 100th Anniversary, Jayhawk Theatre! ✨🎭

08/14/2026

Thank you to everyone who shared a piece of Jayhawk history with us this week — from Rocky Horror shadow-casts to first movies in the balcony, we loved reading every single one. It's clear this theatre has been part of so many of your stories.

Sheri Rippel, your memory of Historic Jayhawk Theatre, TCTA, and TPAC joining hands for an all-woman production of Twelfth Night — the show that helped launch Lady Shakes Theatre Company, with Ad Astra Theatre Ensemble also part of that collaboration — really captures what these 100 years have been about: community, collaboration, and creativity on our stage.

Please send us a message so we can get your two Centennial Tour tickets to you!

Thank you all for celebrating 100 years with us. Here's to the next 100. ✨

08/12/2026

We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Spencer Duncan and the Topeka City Council for recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the Historic Jayhawk Theatre.

Last night’s Mayoral Proclamation was a special moment in the Jayhawk’s Centennial story and a heartfelt reminder that the State Theatre of Kansas has always been about more than a building. It is about the people who have loved it, believed in it, fought to preserve it, and envisioned what it could once again become.

The timing was especially meaningful because on August 11, 1925, exactly 101 years ago, E.H. Crosby announced plans to build Topeka’s new entertainment complex, which would become the Jayhawk Hotel, Jayhawk Theatre, and historic Jayhawk Walk.

That vision began 101 years ago, and this Sunday, we celebrate 100 years of the Jayhawk Theatre.

Thank you for being part of this very special Centennial moment. The next 100 years begin here.

Witness the moment! Proclamation begins at 5:00.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCzjBUet-Ls

08/10/2026

What’s your favorite Jayhawk Theatre memory?

As we prepare to celebrate the Historic Jayhawk Theatre’s 100th Anniversary, we’d love to hear YOUR Jayhawk stories!

Maybe it was a movie years ago, a first date, a comedy or live music show… Maybe it was a special event or simply a memory that has stayed with you through the years.

Share your favorite Jayhawk Theatre memory in the comments below and you’ll be entered to win two Centennial Tour tickets!

🎟️ We’ll draw one winner Thursday evening, August 13.

100 years. Countless memories. We’d love to hear yours. ✨

08/09/2026

🎉 Step back in time at the Historic Jayhawk Theatre as we celebrate its 100th Anniversary.

Join us for an exclusive Centennial Tour featuring behind-the-scenes access, remarkable restoration progress, hidden historic spaces, and exciting first looks at what's still to come.

From the moment you arrive, you'll be welcomed into an experience celebrating the elegance and excitement of the Roaring Twenties.

This isn't just a look back at an extraordinary past, it's an opportunity to stand inside the future of one of Kansas' most treasured landmarks.

For one day only, just 200 timed tour tickets are available, with tours at 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:30 PM, offering a rare opportunity to experience the Jayhawk during its 100th Anniversary celebration.

Whether you've loved the Jayhawk for decades or are discovering it for the first time, you'll leave inspired by what's possible—and why restoring this historic treasure matters for generations to come.

🎟 Reserve Your Centennial Tour Today: https://shorturl.at/60JtD

Menu Home About Events Rentals Support EVENTS Before closing for restoration, the Jayhawk Theatre regularly hosted a variety of exciting events, including live music, comedy, dance, film screenings, and more. Stay tuned as we expand our capacity and work to bring more amazing shows to the Historic J...

04/08/2026

Celebrating 1 year today when Kansas Senate Bill 227 was signed by Governor Laura Kelly with broad bipartisan support. A tremendous coalition of advocates created a big win for preserving Kansas history and advancing important projects like the Historic Jayhawk Theatre. Onward!

03/19/2026

03/18/2026

We’re proud to celebrate 100 years of the Historic Jayhawk Theatre, Kansas’ Official State Theatre, and grateful for the State’s recognition of its place in our shared history. This milestone is about honoring that legacy and ensuring it continues for generations to come.

02/17/2026

Today we remember and give thanks for John Gonzalez, longtime board member, generous leader, and dear friend. John's dedication and steadfast guidance shaped the Jayhawk Theatre in lasting ways. He will be deeply missed.

John's Obituary: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/john-gonzalez-obituary?id=60748520