Nevada Theatre facts for kids
|
Nevada Theatre
|
|
|
U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
|
 |
|
 Location in California
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 401 Broad Street, Nevada City, California |
|---|---|
| Built | 1865 |
| Part of | Nevada City Downtown Historic District (ID85002520) |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000417 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | March 14, 1973 |
| Designated CP | September 23, 1985 |
The Nevada Theatre, also called the Cedar Theatre, is in downtown Nevada City, California. It is California's oldest theater building that is still standing. This historic theater sits on land that was once home to the Nisenan people.
Contents
History of the Nevada Theatre
After a hotel called the Bailey House burned down in 1863, people wanted a new building. The Nevada Theatre Association started raising money. They sold shares for $100 each. A special ball was held in June 1865 to help pay for the rest of the building. This building was designed in a rustic Victorian style. No one knows who the architect or builder was. The theater first opened its doors on September 9, 1865. The very first show was a comedy called The Dutch Governor, or 'Twould Puzzle a Conjurer. It was written by John Poole.
From Silent Films to Modern Movies
Silent films started showing at the theater as early as 1908. The building was updated in 1909 to work better as a movie house. In 1915, they added a slanted floor and electric lights. The theater closed in 1957 because the economy was slow. But later, people donated money to buy it. The Nevada Theatre reopened in 1968 and has been active ever since.
About the Building
The Nevada Theatre has more than 200 seats. This includes seating in the balcony. The theater is used all year long for both live shows and movies. It is also wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to visit.
Backstage Area
The backstage area is located right under the stage. It is painted a light blue color. This area includes a small room with mirrors for performers to get ready.
The Beautiful Mural
During the time the theater was closed for COVID-19, a large mural was painted. This artwork covers the entire auditorium. Local artist Sarah Coleman created it, with help from Brianna French and Miles Toland. Sarah Coleman explained what the symbols in the mural mean in a short film. The artists received an award for their amazing mural.
Famous Performers and Groups
Many famous people have performed at the Nevada Theatre. These include:
- Lotta Crabtree
- Mötley Crüe
- Jack London
- Emma Nevada
- Mark Twain
- The Second City comedy group
Today, some of the main groups that use the theater are:
- LeGacy Productions
- Nevada Theatre Film Series
- Sierra Stages
- Community Asian Theatre of the Sierra
- Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival
How the Theatre is Managed
In the 1960s, the Nevada County Liberal Arts Commission was created. Their goal was to buy the theater building from United Artists. After that, the Nevada Theatre Commission was formed. This is a non-profit group that manages the theater. They have a Board of Directors who oversee everything. Their main goal is to "preserve and develop the historic Nevada Theatre." They want to make sure it stays an important cultural place for the community.
A Historic Landmark
The Nevada Theatre is a very important building. It is registered as California Historical Landmark No. 863. It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 14, 1973. A special plaque at the theater tells its story:
CALIFORNIA'S OLDEST EXISTING THEATRE BUILDING, THE NEVADA OPENED SEPTEMBER 9, 1865. CELEBRITIES SUCH AS MARK TWAIN, JACK LONDON, AND EMMA NEVADA HAVE APPEARED ON ITS STAGE. CLOSED IN 1957, THE THEATRE WAS LATER PURCHASED THROUGH PUBLIC DONATIONS AND REOPENED MAY 7, 1968 TO AGAIN SERVE THE CULTURAL NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY.
PLAQUE PLACED BY THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION IN COOPERATION WITH THE HISTORICAL LANDMARKS AND LIBERAL ARTS COMMISSIONS OF NEVADA COUNTY, APRIL 27, 1974.
CALIFORNIA REGISTERED HISTORICAL LANDMARK NO. 863
See also
In Spanish: Teatro Nevada para niños
