Frank Polleck recognized for years of service to Missouri Theater 

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV)-- Frank Polleck, a technical director at St. Joseph's beloved Missouri Theater, has served as the Guardian and Keeper of the building and its history in St. Joseph. 

Over the years, Polleck has played an important role in overseeing the restoration and preservation of the historic landmark, helping ensure that the Missouri Theater continues to be a part of the community. 

In recognition of his years of dedication and service, Polleck was presented with a Lifetime of Service Recognition. 

Polleck has been working at the Missouri Theater for nearly 50 years. For him, it was never just about having a job there — he genuinely cared about the building.  

“I was interested in theater also, and so it was just a combination of both, and that was basically why I came down here,” he said.  

Polleck said the building’s beauty was one of the things that drew him in. He also remembers visiting the theater as a child to watch movies, long before he ever imagined it would become such an important part of his life. 

To Polleck, the Missouri Theater is more than just a place to watch a show. He sees the building itself as a piece of art.  

“I think when you put two (of) those things together, it becomes a huge experience. You can go to theater anywhere, but when you put it in a building like this, it makes it an experience,” he said.  

Over the years, Polleck said he considered moving to a larger city, such as Kansas City, to find work. He had already spent years involved in theater and building sets for community theater, so the idea of pursuing opportunities elsewhere crossed his mind. 

In the end, though, it was the people who kept him in town.  

“I liked them and I enjoy working with the people here and that’s not to say there weren’t great people in KC, but I enjoy people here and also my family is here,” Polleck added.  

More recently, Polleck said it was a great honor to receive a plaque, especially with Missouri Senator Tony Luetkemeyer (R-District 34) traveling from Jefferson City, Missouri, to present it to him. 

When reflecting on his time at the theater, one of his favorite memories goes back to when he first started working there. At the time, an organization was formed to help with restoration efforts at the theater.  

“We wanted to help the city to do some of the work, like restore the furniture and that kind of thing, which was a great time,” he said.  

Looking back, Polleck said the people are still what make the theater special.  

For him, the best part is being around the people who work there and those who come through the doors to experience the building.