In 1946, the Mckenzie Theater was built as a premier movie house in downtown Springfield. Today, the building is the Richard E. Wildish Community Theater, a completely refurbished performing arts showcase. Wildish Theater was the brainchild of the Springfield Renaissance Development Corporation. With seed money donated by the Wildish family, the group spearheaded a six-year renovation project, whi
ch was completed in 2006. The board has representatives from Springfield Public Schools, the Springfield Renaissance Development Corporation, the Willamalane Park District, and community members. The theater also serves as a classroom for students of Springfield’s Academy of Arts and Academics. Wildish Community Theater is proud to host five resident companies, the Academy of Ballet Fantastique, All That Dance!, Chamber Music Amici, Rose Children's Theatre, and Swing Shift Jazz Orchestra.
