The Story of the Midland
Loew’s Midland Theatre opened in 1927 as one of Kansas City’s most prominent entertainment venues, reflecting the growth of cinema and live performance during the 1920s. Located within the Midland Building complex downtown, the theatre was part of a nationwide expansion by the Loew’s chain, which sought to create grand, architecturally significant spaces for film and stage.
The building was designed by architect Thomas W. Lamb, one of the leading theater architects of the era. It combines Second Renaissance Revival with elements of Second Empire and Commercial styles. The exterior features terracotta detailing over red and buff brickwork, with a vertical design emphasized by pilasters and cornices. The ground level includes arched windows and decorative metalwork that set the stage for the elaborate interior beyond.
Courtesy: Missouri Valley Special Collections, Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, MO
Inside, the theatre was designed to impress. The main auditorium includes detailed plasterwork, classical motifs, and a large domed ceiling with stained glass. Gold leaf, velvet, and silk were used throughout the space, which was meant to offer an immersive experience. The Midland could seat over 4,000 guests, making it one of the largest theaters in the United States at the time of its opening.
In addition to its appearance, the Midland incorporated several technological innovations. It was among the first American theaters to feature a cantilevered balcony, which provided better sightlines without the need for supporting columns. It also included early versions of air conditioning, as well as heating and ventilation systems that were integrated into the design.
Courtesy The Midland
The Midland opened during a period of significant change in the entertainment industry. The 1920s marked the transition from silent films to sound, and the theatre was equipped to handle this shift. It served not only as a movie theater, but also hosted vaudeville shows, orchestras, and later, concerts and touring productions.
Over the decades, the Midland played an important role in the city’s cultural and economic life. It helped anchor downtown as a commercial and entertainment district, and became a familiar landmark for generations of Kansas Citians. The building has undergone multiple renovations, each aimed at preserving its historic design while updating it for contemporary use.
Courtesy: Missouri Valley Special Collections, Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, MO
Today, the Midland continues to operate as a live performance venue. Its restoration has preserved key architectural elements while adapting the space for concerts, special events, and community gatherings. Nearly a century after it opened, the theatre remains a functional part of Kansas City’s cultural infrastructure and a reminder of the city’s early investment in the performing arts.