Columbia Theatre (Boston) facts for kids
The Columbia Theatre was a famous playhouse and movie theater in Boston, Massachusetts. It was located in a part of the city called the South End, on Washington Street. This theater opened its doors in 1891 and entertained people for many years until it was taken down in 1957.
Contents
What Was the Columbia Theatre?
The Columbia Theatre started as a place for live plays and shows. Later, it also became a cinema, showing movies. It was a popular spot for entertainment in Boston for over 60 years.
Who Ran the Theatre?
When the Columbia Theatre first opened, it was managed by a group of important people in the theater world. These included Charles Frohman, Isaac Baker Rich, and William Harris. They worked together until 1895. Later, the theater was owned by J.J. Grace from New York and then by a big company called Loews. Many people worked there, like Harry Farren, Saul Hamilburg, and Philip Shea, who helped make sure everything ran smoothly.
Exciting Shows and Performances
The Columbia Theatre hosted many different kinds of performances, from plays to comedy shows and even animal acts! People could come and see a wide variety of entertainment.
- 1492 Up to Date': This was a show that included something called Rice's "Surprise Party."
- Comedian Nat C. Goodwin: A famous funny person who made audiences laugh.
- Herbert Graham's "His Wedding Day": A popular play that people enjoyed.
- Brandon Thomas' Charley's Aunt: A very well-known comedy play that is still performed today.
- Hagenbeck's Trained Animals: Imagine seeing amazing animals performing tricks on stage!
- Sydney Grundy's "Sowing the Wind": Another play that was shown at the theatre.
- "The Belle of New York": A musical comedy that was a big hit.
Famous Faces at the Columbia
One notable person who performed at the Columbia Theatre was Evelyn Campbell. She was an actress who graced the stage of this historic venue.
Images for kids
-
Advertisement for "His Wedding Day," 1893
-
Inside the Columbia Theatre, 1896
-
A map from 1896 showing where the Columbia Theatre was located in Boston
-
An advertisement for Evans & Hopper, 1903
-
The seating plan of the theatre, 1904
