The lights dim and a hush comes over the crowd as the music commences. From traveling shows to magicians, Kansas opera houses have hosted impressive performances since the 19th century.

Three historic opera houses continue to captivate audiences, offering entertainment for all ages.

McPherson Opera House
McPherson

Built in 1888, the McPherson Opera House reopened its doors after a rehabilitation project saved it from demolition. The downtown landmark serves as a gathering place, offering cultural entertainment and educational opportunities. Inside, the Mary Anderson Arts Center hosts visual arts classes, and its tiered auditorium accommodates 488 ticket holders for concerts or movies, with views from a 20-foot screen featuring 4K digital projection and Dolby Surround sound. 

On Dec. 4, audience participation is encouraged at the 46th Annual Community Carol-Along and Variety Show. Singers and a cast of characters perform the Grand Ol’ Christmas Show on Dec. 14, and family-friendly movies “White Christmas” on Dec. 11 and “Miracle on 34th Street” on Dec. 18 round out the festivities.

McPherson Opera House
219 S. Main Street, McPherson
(620) 241-1952
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Brown Grand Theatre
Concordia

Colonel Napoleon Bonaparte Brown, a wealthy man from Missouri, declared he would build a magnificent Renaissance Revival-style opera house to accommodate traveling shows. Upon its opening night in 1907, the towering limestone theatre was considered the most elegant one of its kind between Kansas City and Denver.

The restored opera house comfortably seats 432 guests who enjoy live performances and film screenings at the Brown Grand Theatre. Upcoming events include “A Night at the Theatre” featuring scenes by local students on Nov. 22. The movie “Elf” on Dec. 5 kicks off the holiday season, which includes “The Nutcracker” by Ballet Midwest on Dec. 20.

Brown Grand Theatre
310 W. 6th Street, Concordia
(785) 243-2553
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C.L. Hoover Opera House
Junction City

The arts are celebrated in the historic C.L Hoover Opera House, a Romanesque-style structure that once housed the fire and police departments, jail, city council and a theatre. A fire in 1898 engulfed the building, and it was rebuilt including the iconic clock tower. The multi-use facility is revered for its historically accurate beauty, serving as a performing arts and civic center more than 100 years later.

The Junction City Little Theater presents Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas - The Musical” Dec. 4 through Dec. 7. The Walker Reception Hall and Montgomery Rehearsal Hall can be rented for ceremonies and receptions, while the Weary Family Theater/Stage is available for gatherings up to 96 guests.

C.L. Hoover Opera House
135 W. 7th Street, Junction City
(785) 238-3906
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In other news, the extensive renovation of Wareham Hall in Manhattan is ongoing, with a proposed opening date in Winter 2027, according to Executive Director Blade Mages. The opera house will serve as a versatile space with state-of-the-art technology for regional and national touring acts. 

 

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