When the Saenger Theatre opened on Palafox Street in April 1925, it was the definition of an opulent “movie palace”, complete with ushers dressed in naval uniforms, a theatre dog named Big Boy, and silent film screenings paired with a live pipe organ. Over the past century, Pensacola’s Grand Dame has survived hurricanes, dramatic safe heists, and decades of cultural evolution. Now celebrating its centennial, the historic venue is marking the milestone by doing what it does best: bringing timeless entertainment to the community.
Explore the archives, heist lore, and centennial events in WUWF’s full retrospective on 100 years of the Saenger Theatre.