Published: July 21, 2009 12:08 pm      

Ribbon cut Friday on McSwain Theatre

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby was joined by tribal legislators, citizens and employees at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the McSwain Theatre in Ada.

Ceremonies began at 11 a.m. Friday at the theater, located at 130 W. Main Street.

“Keeping culture and history alive is very important to the Chickasaw Nation,” said Gov. Anoatubby. “The McSwain has been a jewel in the crown of the city of Ada for decades, and I believe that will remain true for many years to come.

The late Foster McSwain built the theatre in 1920.

The Spanish Mission style building was the scene for several high profile events over the years.

“King of the Cowboys” Roy Rogers, “Queen of the West” Dale Evans and Gabby Hayes made an appearance at the 1946 world premiere of “Home in Oklahoma”.

Academy-award winning actress Susan Hayward and her co-star Robert Preston appeared at the McSwain for the “Tulsa” world premier in 1949.

More recently, the McSwain stage hosted Ada-native Blake Shelton, who was a regular performer at the theatre for two years before he moved to Nashville.

Purchased by the Chickasaw Nation in 2002, the historic theater has recently undergone extensive renovations and is now ready to reclaim its status as a beacon of entertainment for southeastern Oklahoma.

Renovations included equipping the 1920s-era facility with modern amenities including elevators and accessibility for handicapped patrons.

In addition to re-designed stage area that features state of the art lighting and sound, the first floor and balcony include seating for up to 560.

The second floor contains an additional viewing area with a large video screen as well as an art gallery. The third floor will be used for office space.

Located directly east of the McSwain is the annex building, which houses a snack bar, dressing rooms, prop storage and allows access into the main buildings’ art gallery and offices.

Aside from the cosmetic improvements, the renovation included construction that restored the structural integrity of the buildings.

After the ribbon cutting, a walk through and reception was conducted.

Mrs. Ruby June McSwain Scott, first cousin of original builder Foster McSwain, was delighted with the new and improved theatre.

“It’s just gorgeous!” she said. “It brings back so many memories from when I was a little girl.”

Mrs. Scott, also a Chickasaw citizen, was one day shy of 91 at the time of the ribbon cutting.

“It’s a very special way to celebrate my birthday, being here for this piece of history.

An exciting line up of events is already scheduled for the theater, including a revival of the traditional live music, independent film screenings and magic shows.

The McSwain Theatre is scheduled to reopen to the public at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 25 as a stop for the Honky Tonk Tailgate Party ’09, featuring recording artists Mark Wills, Jeff Bates and Trent Willmon. Tickets are on sale now.

For additional information, contact the McSwain office at (580) 332-8108 or visit www.mcswaintheatre.com.