The Wilma Theatre is a historic cinema and performance venue located at 131 South Higgins Avenue in downtown Missoula, Montana.
Opened in 1921, it was built by William “Billy” Simons and named in honor of his wife, Edna Wilma, an opera singer. Together, the Simons were instrumental in bringing culture and live entertainment to a growing Montana. Designed by architect Ole Bakke with his assistant H. E. Kirkemo, the eight-story, steel-framed building became Missoula’s first high-rise and features Sullivanesque, Chicago School–inspired architecture paired with an opulent Louis XIV–style interior. Originally, the complex housed a 1,400-seat theater, a lounge, banquet rooms, a restaurant, offices, apartments and even a basement swimming pool known as the Crystal Plunge, which later closed. In 1979, the Wilma was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 2015, the Wilma changed ownership and underwent a major renovation focused on preserving its historic charm while modernizing its facilities. Interior finishes were carefully restored, while new bar and service areas were added alongside upgraded heating, cooling and electrical systems. The renovation also significantly enhanced the venue’s performance capabilities with the installation of a state-of-the-art sound system—considered among the best for venues under 3,000 capacity—and advanced stage lighting. Today, the Wilma continues to serve as a cultural cornerstone in Missoula, hosting film festivals like the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival and F3T, along with live music from artists such as Chase Rice, Hot Tuna and Blind Melon, plus comedy, theater and other live events.
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