The Landers Theatre is the only legitimate theatre still standing in Springfield, and since 1970 has been the home of Springfield Little Theatre, Inc. Built in 1909 by John and D.J. Landers and R.W. Steward, the building opened with the musical comedy "The Golden Girl." The exterior is of brick and terra cotta, with theatre masks forming the keystones above double windows and cartouches bearing the letter "L." The orchestra, parquet, and balcony remain essentially unchanged. Original plaster and carved wooden moldings have undergone renovation, and many original light fixtures remain. The proscenium opening is 26 feet wide and 28 feet high. Springfield Little Theatre is restoring the theatre in appearance. As the Landers Orpheum Theatre, vaudeville and stage presentations were given, ranging from Lillian Russell, John Philip Sousa's Band, and Fanny Brice to wrestling matches. In 1928 the Landers became the 35th theatre in the world to acquire "talkie" installations. In 1940 it became a Fox-Midwest Theatre, and in 1959 was the home of Jubilee, U.S.A., national NBC-TV show. The Landers has made a significant contribution to the social and cultural life of Springfield. Architectural style: Baroque Renaissance, Napoleon.

Approved: 1/8/73