TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Little Anthony's Diner and the Gaslight Theater have been serving food and entertainment to Tucson for nearly 50 years, and the man behind it says the secret to their longevity is the people — both on stage and in the seats.
Owner Tony Terry is a Tucson native who wanted to bring together his love of theater and food in one place. He found a home for that vision on the city's east side.
"So when we moved down to Sabino Canyon and the Tanca Verde, I knew darn well that if I wanted to sell some food and beverage, I'd have to open my own restaurant. And I thought a diner would be a much better match with our theater," Terry said.
Little Anthony's serves American classics in the style of a retro 1950s diner, a concept rooted in Terry's own childhood.
"You know, the 50s, I grew up in the 50s. I was born in 53. It's just a great carefree time period," Terry said.
While the diner serves delicious treats, the Gaslight Theater draws on local talent to perform shows every week for Tucson families. For General Manager and actor Heather Stricker, performing there was a lifelong goal.
"Every year I said to my family, "I want to go to the Gaslight Theater."" Stricker said. "It was just one of my dreams to perform on the stage. I think the best part of performing here is every audience is gonna be packed with people who love what we do here at the Gaslight."
Terry said the performers are what make the theater special.
"On the theater side, they absolutely love what they're doing. And I mean, they are the most talented actors, directors, musicians in Tucson," Terry said.
Open since 1978, the theater and diner have weathered challenges over the decades. Terry said his dedicated staff and the loyalty of the Tucson community are what have kept both businesses going, and he measures success in a simple way.
"If I could be in my office sitting in my chair and the show is good enough that I can hear their laughter in my office, then that's a win," Terry said.
Terry said he hopes the tradition continues for generations to come.
"Well, hopefully we'll be entertaining Tucson families for, you know, years and years to come," Terry said.
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JJ McKinney joined KGUN 9 in July of 2025 as a multimedia journalist. He graduated from Colorado State University in May of 2025 with a degree in journalism and media communications and a minor in law. With a background in investigative reporting and documentary filmmaking, JJ is dedicated to giving a platform to the voices of his community. Share your story ideas and important issues with JJ by emailing jj.mckinney@kgun9.com or by connecting on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
