Metropolitan Opera House (Iowa Falls, Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Metropolitan Opera House
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | 515 Washington St. Iowa Falls, Iowa |
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| Built | 1899 |
| Architect | O'Meyer & Thori |
| Architectural style | Renaissance Revival Italian Renaissance |
| Part of | Washington Avenue Commercial Historic District (ID12000889) |
| NRHP reference No. | 75000690 |
| Added to NRHP | February 20, 1975 |
The Metropolitan Opera House (MOH) is a very old and important building in Iowa Falls, Iowa, United States. It is a special kind of theater called an opera house. Because of its history, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. This means it is recognized as a place worth protecting. Later, in 2012, it also became part of the Washington Avenue Commercial Historic District.
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History of the Metropolitan Opera House
The Metropolitan Opera House was designed by a famous architecture company called Omeyer & Thori. It first opened its doors on December 27, 1899. The very first show had more than 800 people watching! People in Iowa Falls called it the "biggest social event" ever.
Famous Visitors and Early Shows
Many well-known performers came to the Metropolitan Opera House. These included actors like Otis Skinner and Walker Whiteside. The famous bandleader John Philip Sousa also brought his band to play there.
Movies and College Performances
From 1930 to 1954, the opera house changed a bit. It started showing movies, like a cinema. It also became a place for concerts and plays. Students from Ellsworth College and Iowa Falls High School often performed their drama and dance shows there.
Modern Updates and Reopening
In June 2013, a person named John P. Whitesell bought the theater. He made some important updates, like adding new digital projectors. The Metropolitan Opera House then reopened its doors to the public.
Hugh Jackman's Visit
On September 20, 2013, a very famous actor, Hugh Jackman, came to the grand reopening. He brought his family with him. Hugh Jackman is known for movies and was nominated for an Oscar. He introduced two of his films, Prisoners and The Wolverine, to the audience.
