The Long Center for the Performing Arts opened its doors on April 19, 1921 with a performance by The Ed. Wynn Musical Carnival. Used primarily for vaudeville performances the theatre (then called the Mars theatre) began showing moving pictures in January of 1929 begining with the film "On Trial".
With a single screen, the Mars operated as a movie theatre until 1977. Donated to the City of Lafayette by Irving Long, President of Fourth Avenue Amusement Company, the theatre was later renamed the "Dennis H. Long Center for the Performing Arts" after Irving's father.
Today the Long Center hosts live performances by the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra, the Long Center Theatre Organ Society, and the Lafayette Ballet Company.
Additional Photos
Photo by David Harmon
Memories from Jon Gipson- "I remember going to movies at the Mars Theater when I was a little kid,this was in the late 60's.The Mars was at 111 N. 6th st. in Lafayette. At that time you could get a summer pass to a number of movies,this was priced very reasonably. You could go to a single movie for less than a dollar,we would smuggle our own treats in. If we had enough money we would get lemon or cherry drops,sometimes popcorn. The theater was really cool,it has a balcony,and a very neat interior. I saw Gone with the wind there(color version) and lots of other classics,Disney movies etc. I also remember the Lafayette Theater at the corner of Main and 6th streets. It was neat,but never had the ambieance of the Mars.
ReplyDeleteThe Mars is now the Long Center for the performing arts,and has been beautifully restored and maintained. At last the Lafayette Theater has also been renovated and is used as a gathering place for music,reunions,and other functions. These 2 theaters within a half block of each other are definetely the most historic and interesting,surviving theater buildings in Lafayette."