Opera House Theatre
A visit to the Opera House Theatre provides a multitude of attractions. The historic Opera House Theatre was established in 1891, and is currently the oldest continually-operating theatre in the State of Montana.
Many of the entertainers who performed here, from years ago to the present, autographed the wall of the theatre and these signatures have been preserved throughout the building.
Frank Horrigan bought the property in December of 1919 and renamed it the Granada. At that time, the ornate box seating was taken out for what was believed to accommodate better acoustics. New sound and projection machines were installed and are still in place and in working order today.
A variety of businesses have occupied parts of the building through the years including a soda pop bottling company, The Philipsburg Commercial Club, a bank, Carmichael's Livery Stable and others.
Andrew Crow, recognized pianist, acquired the property in the early 1980's and saved the building from demolition and later sold it to Tim Dringle. Tim and Claudette Dringle are actively pursuing their goals of restoring the theatre to its original splendor and bringing live entertainment back to the stage.
Edgar S. Paxson (1852-1919) painted six backdrops for the theatre in the late 1800's and early 1900's. The energetic, quiet, friendly young man was born near Buffalo, New York, in April, 1852 and came to Montana in the Spring of 1877. He worked as a cowboy, shotgun rider and military scout. In 1879 he settled with his wife and son in Deer Lodge and became a professional painter. In addition to sign and house painting, he decorated saloons and painted backdrops and scenery for theatres in area communities. Over the years, the Paxson backdrops were sold and changed hands several times until they were returned to the Opera House Theatre on loan from the Granite County Museum early in 1998. Of the original six backdrops, five remain today.
In September of 2000, thanks to a donation from Columbia Paint, the theatre received a dramatic face lift! The building was washed and all the ornate trim painted for the first time in 100 years.
Beginning for the eighth summer season, residents and visitors alike have enjoyed professional live theatre and vaudeville performances. Look to our Calendar of Events for the year's play schedule, and other events in the upcoming season. Visitors are welcome to stop in and enjoy the theatre.
