Remembering the
Gillioz Theatre “M. E. Gillioz, the first citizen of Monett, is far more than a contractor. He is an automobile dealer, banker, clothing merchant, druggist, accordion player, picture theatre owner and a judge of many good things.”
T
his tribute to M.E. Gillioz, by Albert R. Waters, indicated Gillioz was larger than life and determined to accomplish many great things throughout his life. Locally, many area residents fondly recall the Gillioz Theatre, located in the 600 block of Broadway, having spent many hours there watching the latest movies until it closed in the late 1970s and was finally torn down in 1987. However, all is not lost. Above the Monett Historical Museum, located at 422 E. Broadway, a small theatre is being built that will reflect the essence of the former elegant structure, even incorporating some original materials into the construction. “This is really an homage to Gillioz, and his contributions to the community,” said Mark Henderson, one of those responsible for spearheading the project and a Gillioz Theatre employee while in high school. “We want to adapt the
Story by Melonie Roberts
available space to reflect with historic sympathy the theatre had that everyone remembers. That was the social gathering place in Monett for many years.” The miniature venue will hold approximately 26 seats, and include the decorative capstone from the original
M.E. Gillioz
The Gillioz Theatre opened in 1931 and was the social gathering place for area residents.
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