On Thursday, Mayor Cody Schmidt proclaimed Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, as Crest Theatre Day in the City of Great Bend, in celebration of the historic theatre’s 75th anniversary.
Located at the corner of Lakin and Kansas Avenue, the Crest Theatre has stood as a vibrant landmark and entertainment venue in the Great Bend town square since its grand opening on Nov. 9, 1950.
The City of Great Bend took ownership of the Crest Theatre in 1992 and has preserved its historical integrity in partnership with operating group the Great Bend Community Theatre. The building was officially added to the National Register of Historical Places in 2005.
The Crest Theatre’s mission is to promote the arts and serve the public through volunteerism that reflects the values of community pride, creativity and civic spirit. The Great Bend Community Theatre utilizes the building to enrich the community with its live productions along with children’s summer program that develops the talent of young performers and future leaders.
To commemorate the anniversary, Bob Marsh and the Great Bend Community Theatre group are hosting a pair of showings of “Two Weeks with Love” -- the same film that debuted at the original opening -- at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2025. Doors open at 1 p.m. with an admission cost of $1 as seats are claimed on a first come first serve basis.
The City of Great Bend will present the Great Bend Community Theatre with the proclamation on Thursday, Nov. 6 at the Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Schmidt invites all citizens to join in celebrating this historic milestone, honoring the Crest as a historical landmark of our community and supporting its continued legacy for generations to come.