Commissioners discuss early-stage plans and major rehab needs for Ozark Theatre; offer assistance connecting to arts agencies

Commission members reported that the owner of the Ozark Theatre has made initial contact about renovating the venue and is still in early planning stages.

Commission member 1 said the owner “left a voice mail for me just saying they're still in really early stages. And he said we're still trying to figure out what to do.” The owner, described by commissioners as an attorney, indicated he is seeking an operator and considering uses that could include performance space with retail options or rehearsal space.

Speakers said substantial rehabilitation will be required. Commission member 2 said “a significant amount of rehab will be needed.” Commissioners recommended connecting the owner with experienced operators and with the Missouri Arts Council; one commissioner offered to put the owner in touch with a contact who helped set up the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center and now works at the Missouri Arts Council.

Members also placed the Ozark Theatre discussion in the broader context of local arts infrastructure. Several speakers noted the recent loss or relocation of other arts organizations — one commissioner said the Opera Theater was exploring land-purchase options in Clayton — and suggested Webster Groves could leverage local assets to retain or replace cultural capacity. The Frick Theatre renovation at the high school, cited in the meeting as a roughly $2,000,000, recently completed project, was held up as a small, successful model.

Commissioners raised practical concerns that would affect operations, including parking and neighborhood acceptance. One commissioner said parking “is always gonna be a struggle” for evening events. Several members suggested the commission and Webster Arts could support the project with outreach, memorandums of understanding, zoning assistance or other behind-the-scenes support, but no financial commitment or formal city action was recorded.