Gem Theatre | Kansas City, MO

The building that currently houses Kansas City’s Gem Theatre was originally built in 1912 as a silent film movie house named the Star Theatre that catered primarily to African American audiences. It was renamed the Gem Theatre in 1923 after its owners remodeled its exterior to give it more curb appeal. The Gem continued to serve as the neighborhood movie house well into the 1970’s. Today, the theater along with the rest of the 18th and Vine Historical District has undergone a complete make over in the past several years. Behind the restored 1912 facade, the Gem Theatre houses a state-of-the-art 500-seat performing arts center which showcases both local and national jazz talents, most notably Kansas City’s very popular “Jammin’ at the Gem” jazz masters’ concert organized by the American Jazz Museum across the way. Community events, musical, dance and theatrical performances have also found a home here. The theatre’s open and contemporary interior design ensures that almost everyone has one of the best seats in the house. The stunningly restored and refurbished theatre lobby also makes it a local favorite for special events. Space is also available for meetings, workshops and seminars.  Other attractions next door include the Negro League Baseball Museum and the Blue Room Jazz Club.

Gem Theatre
1615 East 18th Street
Kansas City, MO 64108
(816) 474-6262
Official Website: N/A
Map & Driving Directions

For more information on black travel destinations world wide be sure to visit Discover Black Heritage, A Travel Guide to Black History and Culture.