Star Theatre

The first dedicated movie venue in Hays operated in 1908 as the Airdome. But the home of the first hardtop theatre was opened by Jim Fredorovicz in the G.A.R. (Grand Army of the Republic) Hall as the Electric Theatre in 1911. Movies had been played there three days a week as a text in 1910 to great success. But under Fredotovicz, the Electric Theatre did not bother with multiple projectors or even sound of any kind. Projection was totally silent including the playing of “Birth of a Nation.” The venue operated three days a week.

When Millard Kirkman opened the Strand Theatre including multiple projectors and accompanying music and sound effects, the Electric Theatre was done and became the Knights of Columbus Hall. And that could have ended this entry even as the venue became the Civic Hall in 1921 followed by the St. Joseph’s Parish Hall in 1926.

But in 1934, movies came back to the venue as the Star Theatre. The Star Theatre was a modern venue with Art Deco style design, sloped floor, sound system, and concession stand – none of which had been featured at the Electric Theatre.

The theatre was listed at 525 seats. But with competition from the Drive-In Theatre in 1948 and the new Fox Theatre in 1950, the Star Theatre’s days were numbered as it ceased operations in 1953. The Strand Theatre was reopened as a widescreen venue taking the Star Theatre’s spot.

Get Movie Tickets & Showtimes

Want to be emailed when a new comment is posted about this theater?
Just login to your account and subscribe to this theater.