Midland, Midland County
Attracted by Midland's growing economy and the rapid development of the area's petroleum industry, T.S. Hogan announced plans for the construction of this facility in 1927. An oilman and former Montana senator, Hogan saw the need for a multi-purpose theatre to serve the growing population of the Permian Basin. He commissioned noted Fort Worth architect Wyatt C. Hedrick to design the structure. The result was an elaborate facade with intricate Gothic Revival detailing. The interior was designed by H. B. Layman of New York and features characteristics of the Egyptian Revival style. The Yucca Theatre opened on December 5, 1929, after two years of construction. The premier included a screening of the Hollywood musical "Rio Rita" and a musical comedy revue by the Jubilee Players of New York City. The versatility of the building's design made the Yucca Theatre suitable for a variety of activities. Despite the 1930s economic depression, it remained a popular place for traveling vaudeville shows, operas, recitals, and high school graduation ceremonies. Today it serves as a reminder of Midland's early growth as a center of the petroleum industry. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1981