WYO Theater in Sheridan, Wyoming
by Susan Rissi Tregoning
Title
WYO Theater in Sheridan, Wyoming
Artist
Susan Rissi Tregoning
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
The historic WYO Theater in the Downtown Historic District of Sheridan, Wyoming with its iconic neon sign aglow at night.
In 1923, the WYO Theater debuted as the Lotus, earning the title of Wyoming's Wonder Picture Palace from enthusiastic newspaper headlines. The introduction of talkies in 1929 drew crowds from all over Northern Wyoming to Sheridan for their first sound film experience. During the early 1930s, the theater underwent an exterior renovation and adopted an Art Deco marquee, rebranding itself as Fox-Lotus. By 1935, Sheridan had become a hub for dude ranching, prompting a one-week closure of the Lotus and its subsequent reopening as The Western Theater for Western People. This transformation included log slab trimming inside and out, large murals of Western scenes adorning three auditorium walls, and a lobby featuring buffalo heads and Indian rugs.
A significant overhaul in 1941 gave the theater a modernistic style with stucco fins hiding neon lights, resulting in another name change to The WYO. Its grand reopening on August 14, 1941—declared WYO Theater Day by the Mayor—featured fireworks, live bands, street dancing, and numerous dignitaries celebrating Sheridan's new cultural landmark.
The historic venue ceased operations in March 1982 when its marquee was removed. However, a non-profit organization formed with a mission to Save the WYO led to extensive community fundraising and remodeling efforts, culminating in the theater's reopening in October 1989.
Copyright 2024 Susan Rissi Tregoning
Uploaded
September 16th, 2024
Embed
Share