The Mineral Point Opera House

Dedicated in 1915 as the “Theater for All the People,” the description still holds true for the Mineral Point Opera House. Claude and Stark, an influential Madison architectural firm, designed the original vaudeville house, which, in its early days, attracted nationally acclaimed touring artists who presented first-class entertainment to an enthusiastic and prosperous community. With a balcony and two boxes, the auditorium originally seated over 700 spectators who were treated to live drama, comedy, grand opera, and symphonic music.

As movies gained prominence as entertainment, the community spent their weekends in the theater enjoying first-run movies through the years. A local group of talented actors, directors, and entertainers formed The Shake Rag Players who delighted local audiences for decades.

The many years of enjoyment and use took a toll on the theater, and updates, repairs, and safety features became necessary. In 2008, a non-profit group was established and a campaign to restore the Opera House was created as a collaborative endeavor involving many community members.

The master plan outlined necessary updates to lighting, electrical, HVAC, fire safety, flooring, accessibility, seating, and more. This team looked to the staff of the Conrad Schmitt Studios to design the Opera House’s new decorative scheme. Color design renderings and onsite samples of tones and finishes, offering a glimpse of the new decorative scheme were executed and approved. Studio artists replicated lost ornamental plaster and carefully decorated the historic architectural elements of the House.

This elegant transformation is a testament to working towards achieving a dream, no matter how big. The restoration has breathed new life into the Opera House as an enthusiastic community witnessed this magnificent old theater return to its original grandeur. The theater is supported by the attendees and community and is run as a non-profit organization with a governing board and theater manager.

Today, this theater is considered an elegant jewel, maintaining its original integrity of the past, nestled in the Driftless region of Wisconsin, in the beautifully restored historic town of Mineral Point. Come join us in our beautifully appointed venue hosting a diverse mix of cultural, musical, visual/film, and community and private events throughout the year.