From the Archives… The Rose Blooms

RDT is currently in the process of inventorying, cataloging, and assessing our extensive archive including over 120 years of modern dance history and almost 60 years of company history. This archive preserves videos, photographs, and documentation of dance history to support our “living library” of dance for future generations of artists and art lovers.
In our 59th season of reflection, RDT participates in Utah State Archives Month to highlight “the future in the archives.” To stay connected:
- Follow our social media for features from our archive throughout the rest of October, exploring futures and dreams – realized and unrealized – for the arts in Salt Lake City.
- Sign up for our archive newsletter to continue receiving exclusive peeks into RDT’s history throughout the season.
This project is made possible through a grant from the Utah State Historical Records Advisory Board (USHRAB) and National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).
FROM THE ARCHIVE – The Rose Blooms
As plans were made for reconstruction on the RESCO building, RDT began rehearsing in the space and noticed that a certain gentleman kept coming into the building to watch. One day, Linda Smith approached him and learned that the location of the RESCO building was where his family home and business used to be. This man was Izzi Wagner and his generous support for RDT provided the final funding that was needed to begin construction. His only request was that the building be named in honor of his mother, Rose Wagner, a hard-working immigrant, successful businesswoman, and inspiration to him throughout his life.
In September 1995, the old RESCO was demolished, and construction began on a new building. This future became realized in January 1997 as phase one of The Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. The first performance was held in the Leona Wagner Black Box Theatre – named after Izzi’s sister – featuring choreography in tribute to the energy, generosity, and ingenuity of the Wagner family. Later the Jeanné Wagner Theatre would be named after Izzi’s wife who was a vaudeville dancer when they met.
The Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center continues to provide space for RDT and many other performing arts groups in an affordable, accessible model that has allowed the arts to grow and thrive in Salt Lake City. RDT has been able to expand our programming to include a community school, student matinees, five home season shows, and LINK performances by independent artists. Despite the many plans that never came to be, we are now living in the future that was envisioned by Linda C. Smith and the PAC more than 30 years ago.
Blueprints for Phase 2 of the RESCO reconstruction by Eaton Mahoney Associates
1999 press release for groundbreaking and public plans for the building
1999 program for the groundbreaking ceremony
2001 program for the Phase 2 completion ceremony and opening of the Jeanne Wagner Theatre
This project is made possible through a grant from the Utah State Historical Records Advisory Board (USHRAB) and the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).
While Archives Month has come to a close, we will continue sending out periodic Archive Newsletters throughout the upcoming season. Sign up below!