A Main Street encore
This Main Street address began its entertainment life as the McKenzie Theater in 1946. Its first advertised film was The Virginian. Later chapters included a fine-arts theater, a boxing club, and the dance and music hall known as The Zoo.
A major renovation brought a new chapter in 2006: the Richard E. Wildish Community Theater. The name honors Richard E. Wildish, whose family’s business became a longstanding part of Lane County.
Today the Wildish hosts music, theater and other community performances in a 275-seat room. Its official site emphasizes close sightlines, acoustics and accessibility, including a hearing-loop system.
A DETAIL TO NOTICE
One address, many kinds of performance
- 1946McKenzie Theater opens.
- 2006Renovation creates the Wildish Community Theater.
- TodayA 275-seat home for local arts and touring performances.
History: City of Springfield · Downtown Walking Tour · Wildish official history and current facilities. Checked October 12, 2026.
Original AI line illustration simplified from venue photography; selected details animate gently within the drawing. Photo reference ↗