History

Tower Grove Abbey is a beautiful century-old church that is being newly developed as a multi-use performance center for arts, education, and community programs. Located in the newly revitalized Tower Grove East neighborhood, this accessible venue near Grand Boulevard offers free, secure parking at the adjacent Shenandoah Elementary School. The Abbey's spacious main stage area, with its exquisite architecture and stained glass windows, is ideal for larger events while three additional areas are available for smaller functions.

Rejuvenating a Landmark

The rehab of this century-old church into a multi-use center is underway. With its new name, Tower Grove Abbey will be home to Stray Dog Theatre (SDT) and its expanding arts, education, and community programs. This acoustically-superb main stage will accomodate 150 guests, while three additional areas feature seating for smaller functions. With its breathtaking architecture and stained-glass windows, Tower Grove Abbey is a hidden gem within the St. Louis area ready to make every event a memorable one.

A Historical Presence

Initially known as the “German Evangelical Saint Lukas Church of St. Louis”, St. Luke’s was first located in the Mill Creek or Chouteau Valley. In 1906 the cornerstone for the new church was laid at its current location, and was dedicated in November, 1912. The total cost of construction: $50,000. After almost 100 years in the Tower Grove East neighborhood, the church has become a focal point for the community.

(credit: slcl.org, towergroveeast.org, stlouis.missouri.org)

A Place for the Arts

In addition to serving as the home of Stray Dog Theatre (SDT), Tower Grove Abbey will showcase a variety of artists and events, ranging from musicians, poets, and comedians to movies, meetings, and banquets. Tower Grove Abbey will also house many of SDT’s Arts-In-Mind education programs, including after-school, weekend, and summer arts camps. The Abbey is also host to various community organizations and events.