The Fox Theater, built in 1929, has been restored by the Humason Family of Hanford to nearly its original appearance. It currently opens its doors for special occasion live performances and cinematic achievements. It is easily worth the price of a ticket just to view the interior of this atmospheric style theater created in the twenties by the William Fox Company. At the time of its construction, William Fox did not believe movies would last. His edifices were styled to provide vaudevillian entertainment when moving pictures became history. Fortunately for Hanford, the Fox could provide comfort to a variety of entertainment with its full stage and dressing rooms.

The audience was treated to the ambiance of an outdoor Mediterranean garden. Little stars twinkled overhead, trees and other ornaments with subtle backlighting, lined the sides of the theatre. A moon made its way across the sky while the picture played. The balconies, apparently sculptured by pastry chefs, and sideline decorations it tends to lull the viewer into believing that you have been transported to some fantasy corner of the imagination.

An extraordinary addition to the Fox Theater as of 1993, is the return of a Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ. This is not an original instrument to this location, but was acquired through the Theater Organ Society of Southern California. This original organ from the Hanford Fox was transported to a Presbyterian Church in Easton, about thirty miles from Hanford, where it is still in use as far as we know. Organ concerts at this theater are a special treat.

Thanks to the Humason family of Hanford, who's hard work in lovingly restoring the old theater, it is again a center for many various entertainment. Events include the children's Christmas show, live comedians, like Bill Cosby, and concerts. Country western performers include greats like: Pam Tillis, Mark Chesnut, Ty England, Lee Roy Parnell, and Trisha Yearwood.

It is well worth the price for admission to see the interior of this lovely old theater. Call the Fox Theater at (559) 584-7423 for information about future events and concerts.

• Ride Amtrak to Historic Hanford - Amtrak reservations: 800-872-7245
• Ride to and from your destination on our 1950 Studebaker Fire Truck
• Take an escorted walking tour with a Show-Off Tour Guide
• Ride the antique Carousel - reservations: 559-582-5024