Folly Theater

Over its 120-year history, the Folly Theater has gone from a vaudeville venue to a center for burlesque, facing challenges, transformations, and periods of decline before being revived.

Folly Theater

300 W 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64105 (Map)
Built: 1900
Architect/Style: Louis Curtiss // Neo-Palladian
Area: Convention District

Over its 120-year history, the Folly Theater has gone from a vaudeville venue to a center for burlesque, facing challenges, transformations, and periods of decline before being revived as a historic performing arts venue.

Early History and Architecture

Originally known as the Standard Theater, the Folly was designed by prominent Kansas City architect Louis S. Curtiss and opened its doors on September 23, 1900. The building was commissioned by Colonel Edward Butler, a businessman and politician from St. Louis, who sought to expand his ventures into the theater industry.