The Hidden Symbolism of Utica’s Stanley Theater – The Octagram

Historic buildings like Utica's Stanley Theater often carry hidden messages and symbolism in their architecture and design elements. Learn about the octagrams that are hidden on the ceilings of the Stanley foyer and lobby.

Octagrams are eight sided stars. Traditionally the represent a full compass rose with north-south-east-west compass points as well as  northwest-northeast-southwest-southeast.

Astrologically, eight pointed stars also represents the four compass points intersected by the two equinoxes and solstices that occur on Earth each year.

Because octragrams are often made by drawing interlocking boxes, they can symbolize balance, harmony and represent themes of the infinite. Perhaps the architects of the Stanley had that in mind when they created Utica's grandest theater.