COATES OPERA HOUSE - Revision history

Randylyon at 19:59, 9 February 2018

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	COATES OPERA HOUSE. The Coates Theater, formerly been the site of [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]], received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the Bartell's Theatre building. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his new venue--the Coates Opera House. The show returned to the park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (1)		[[Image:THEATERHISTORY.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Theater History. Courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]COATES OPERA HOUSE. The Coates Theater, formerly been the site of [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]], received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the Bartell's Theatre building. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his new venue--the Coates Opera House. The show returned to the park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (1)

	To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (2) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (3)		To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (2) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (3)

Randylyon at 19:18, 5 February 2018

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	[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.		[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.

	In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It renamed the building the [[BIJOU THEATER]].		In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It purchased and renamed the building the [[BIJOU THEATER]].

Randylyon at 19:09, 5 February 2018

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	Morris opened the theater to other events as well. In 1901 the Iowa Dairymen Convention was held there in November. (4) However, not even the Military band which drew a crowd outside, could persuade their audience to attend a political debate in November 1902. Better luck attended a performance of the Fays, a group of mindreaders, who performed in January 1903.		Morris opened the theater to other events as well. In 1901 the Iowa Dairymen Convention was held there in November. (4) However, not even the Military band which drew a crowd outside, could persuade their audience to attend a political debate in November 1902. Better luck attended a performance of the Fays, a group of mindreaders, who performed in January 1903.

	The announcement was made in July, 1903 that the Telegraph-Herald Company had signed a lease on the building. It was the intention of the management to move into the building during the fall. Plans called for extensive renovation including additional floors in the four story building and new machinery. Breaking with the tradition of having the presses in the basement, the new office of the newspaper would install the presses on the main floor. (5)		The announcement was made in July, 1903 that the Telegraph-Herald Company had signed a lease on the building. It was the intention of the management to move into the building during the fall. Plans called for extensive renovation including additional floors in the four story building and new machinery. Breaking with the tradition of having the presses in the basement, the new office of the newspaper would install the presses on the main floor. (5) This never took place.

	[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.		[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.

	In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]] and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (6)		In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It renamed the building the [[BIJOU THEATER]].

	~~The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE~~]].

Randylyon at 18:32, 5 February 2018

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	COATES OPERA HOUSE. The ~~had a single balcony~~ and ~~only two box seats located so close~~ to the ~~stage~~ to ~~make it impossible~~ to ~~see well from either~~. The ~~seating arrangement was unique~~. ~~The rows of seats followed around~~ the ~~parquet rail so~~ that ~~a person sitting on the extreme ends of the rows faced a side wall instead of the stage~~. (3)		COATES OPERA HOUSE. The Coates Theater, formerly been the site of [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]], received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the Bartell's Theatre building. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his new venue--the Coates Opera House. The show returned to the park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (1)

	~~The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris~~, ~~a man with experience as a theatrical manager.~~ Morris ~~came~~ to ~~Dubuque~~ in ~~1900 and negotiated with~~ the ~~managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show~~. ~~When the opportunity arose in June~~, ~~he leased the building which had formerly been the site~~ of ~~[[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. Morris then convinced~~ the ~~park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his Coates Opera House~~. ~~The show returned to the park~~ for ~~Sunday afternoon and evening shows~~. ~~Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter~~, ~~Morris announced that comic opera would be presented~~. (13)		To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (2) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (3)

	~~To encourage attendance,~~ Morris ~~had electric fans installed through~~ the theater to ~~ensure cool temperatures~~ in ~~the summer~~. ~~On announced days~~, ~~ladies were admitted to any part of~~ the ~~theater for ten cents. Children~~ could attend ~~for five cents~~. ~~(14) On December 22~~, ~~1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket~~. ~~(15)~~		Morris opened the theater to other events as well. In 1901 the Iowa Dairymen Convention was held there in November. (4) However, not even the Military band which drew a crowd outside, could persuade their audience to attend a political debate in November 1902. Better luck attended a performance of the Fays, a group of mindreaders, who performed in January 1903.

	Morris opened the theater to other events as well. In 1901 the Iowa Dairymen Convention was held there in November. (16) However, not even the Military band which drew a crowd outside, could persuade their audience to attend a political debate in November 1902. Better luck attended a performance of the Fays, a group of mindreaders, who performed in January 1903.		The announcement was made in July, 1903 that the Telegraph-Herald Company had signed a lease on the building. It was the intention of the management to move into the building during the fall. Plans called for extensive renovation including additional floors in the four story building and new machinery. Breaking with the tradition of having the presses in the basement, the new office of the newspaper would install the presses on the main floor. (5)

	The announcement was made in July, 1903 that the Telegraph-Herald Company had signed a lease on the building. It was the intention of the management to move into the building during the fall. Plans called for extensive renovation including additional floors in the four story building and new machinery. Breaking with the tradition of having the presses in the basement, the new office of the newspaper would install the presses on the main floor. (17)

	[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.		[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.

	In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]] and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)		In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]] and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (6)

	The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. ~~(20)~~ The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].		The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].


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	1. "~~Memories of the Fourth St. Theatre~~," ''~~Telegraph Herald'', April 10, 1910, p. 6~~		1. "It is Now Riverside Park," ''The Dubuque Herald'', June 7, 1900, p. 3

	~~2. Oldt, Franklin T. and Patrick J. Quigley, '''History of~~ Dubuque ~~County, Iowa''' Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, . p. 51~~

	~~3. "Memories..."~~

	~~4. "Inns of Yesteryear," ''Telegraph-~~Herald ~~and Times-Journal~~'', ~~April 30, 1933, p. 5~~

	~~5. Memories~~

	~~6. "Dubuque Before 1880," ''Telegraph Herald'', November 2, 1933. p.~~ 7~~. Online: http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=BABCAAAAIBAJ&sjid=U6oMAAAAIBAJ&pg=1340,4189885&dq=lumber+yard+fires+dubuque&hl=en~~

	~~7. "Theater At Fourth and Main: A Rich and Vivid Tradition," Online: http://fiveflagscenter.com/AboutUs/History.aspx~~

	~~8. Ibid.~~

	~~9. Ibid.~~

	~~10. "Commencement Exercises," ''Dubuque Daily Herald''~~, ~~June 25, 1886~~, p. 4

	~~11. "Many Are Coming," ''Dubuque Telegraph Herald'', Nov. 10, 1901, p. 14~~

	~~12. Ibid.~~

	13. ~~"It is Now Riverside Park," ''The Dubuque Herald'', June 7, 1900, p~~. 3		2. Ibid.

	14. ~~Ibid~~.		3. "City in Brief," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', December 20, 1902, p. 5

	15. "~~City in Brief~~," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', ~~December 20~~, ~~1902~~, p. 5		4. "The Second Day," Dubuque Telegraph-Herald, November 13, 1901, p. 3

	16. "~~The Second Day~~," Dubuque Telegraph-Herald, ~~November 13~~, ~~1901~~, p. 3		5. "Gets a New Home," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', July 2, 1903, p. 3

	17. "~~Gets a~~ New ~~Home~~," ''~~Dubuque~~ Telegraph-Herald'', ~~July 2~~, ~~1903~~, p. 3		6. "New Bijou Theatre Building Which Was Destroyed by Fire at Early Hour Thursday Morning," ''The Telegraph Herald'', April 8, 1910, p. 1

	~~18. "New Bijou Theatre Building Which Was Destroyed by Fire at Early Hour Thursday Morning," ''The Telegraph Herald'', April 8, 1910, p. 1~~

	~~19. Ibid.~~

Randylyon at 18:12, 5 February 2018

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	COATES OPERA HOUSE. The had a single balcony and only two box seats located so close to the stage to make it impossible to see well from either. The seating arrangement was unique. The rows of seats followed around the parquet rail so that a person sitting on the extreme ends of the rows faced a side wall instead of the stage. (3)		COATES OPERA HOUSE. The had a single balcony and only two box seats located so close to the stage to make it impossible to see well from either. The seating arrangement was unique. The rows of seats followed around the parquet rail so that a person sitting on the extreme ends of the rows faced a side wall instead of the stage. (3)

	The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the building which had formerly been the site of [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE ~~THEATER~~]]. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his Coates Opera House. The show returned to the park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (13)		The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the building which had formerly been the site of [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his Coates Opera House. The show returned to the park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (13)

	To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (14) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (15)		To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (14) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (15)

Randylyon at 18:11, 5 February 2018

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	COATES OPERA HOUSE. ~~Located on Fourth and Main [[STREETS]],~~ a ~~building was constructed in 1833 by [[SHIELDS, John G.\|John G. SHIELDS]]~~ and ~~[[EMERSON, J~~. ~~Hannibal\|J~~. ~~Hannibal EMERSON]], father and uncle~~ of ~~[[SHIELDS, James H.\|James H. SHIELDS]]. (1) A theater,~~ the ~~[[ATHENAEUM]], constructed in 1840 by [[EMERSON, James Marshall\|James Marshall EMERSON]] and James Crider, was located~~ on the ~~second floor~~. (2) ~~Shields and Emerson used the first floor as a store.~~		COATES OPERA HOUSE. The had a single balcony and only two box seats located so close to the stage to make it impossible to see well from either. The seating arrangement was unique. The rows of seats followed around the parquet rail so that a person sitting on the extreme ends of the rows faced a side wall instead of the stage. (3)

	The theater had a single balcony and only two box seats located so close to the stage to make it impossible to see well from either. The seating arrangement was unique. The rows of seats followed around the parquet rail so that a person sitting on the extreme ends of the rows faced a side wall instead of the stage. (3) In 1846 the building was renovated, enlarged, and called the [[CITY HOTEL]] by Richard Plumbe. In 1856 the proprietor was C. C. Hewitt. (4)		The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the building which had formerly been the site of [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATER]]. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his Coates Opera House. The show returned to the park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (13)

	In 1859, the City Hotel was redecorated and renamed the Peosta House. (5) The name was changed twice within the next three years - Peosta Hall and Our New Hall. [[STEWART, William G.\|William G. STEWART]] purchased the building and began converting the Hall into Dubuque's fifth major theater in 1863. (6)

	~~In 1864 the Athenaeum Theater was reopened. Although it hosted some of America's finest legitimate theater talent, it ceased to attract star performers when the [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE]] was built. (7)~~

	[[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WALLER, John Robert Sr.\|John Robert WALLER Sr.]] purchased, refurbished, and reopened the Athenaeum as the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]] in late 1877. An appeal was made to the public for its support leading to $5,000 in tickets being sold for the first performance. (8) There was seating for 1,200. (9)

	The building hosted a variety of events. The 1886 [[DUBUQUE HIGH SCHOOL]] commencement was held in the building. (10) In 1891 the Duncan-Waller was the scene of a boxing match. (11) The Opera House was a thriving operation until 1893, when it was renamed the [[MAIN STREET OPERA HOUSE]]. (12)

	~~Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.~~

	The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the ~~old Bartell~~'~~s building~~. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his Coates Opera House. The show returned to the ~~renamed Riverside Park~~ for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (13)

	To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (14) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (15)		To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (14) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (15)
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	[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.		[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.

	In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It ~~purchased the building which it~~ renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]] and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)		In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]] and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)

	The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. (20) The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].		The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. (20) The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].

Randylyon at 04:27, 5 February 2018

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	In 1864 the Athenaeum Theater was reopened. Although it hosted some of America's finest legitimate theater talent, it ceased to attract star performers when the [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE]] was built. (7)		In 1864 the Athenaeum Theater was reopened. Although it hosted some of America's finest legitimate theater talent, it ceased to attract star performers when the [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE]] was built. (7)

	[[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WALLER, John Robert Sr.\|John Robert WALLER Sr.]] purchased, refurbished, and reopened the Athenaeum as the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]] in late 1877. An appeal was made to the public for its support leading to $5,000 in tickets being sold for the first performance. (8) There was seating for 1,200. (9) The building hosted a variety of events. The 1886 [[DUBUQUE HIGH SCHOOL]] commencement was held in the building. (10) In 1891 the Duncan-Waller was the scene of a boxing match. (11) The Opera House was a thriving operation until 1893, when it was renamed the [[MAIN STREET OPERA HOUSE]]. (12)		[[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WALLER, John Robert Sr.\|John Robert WALLER Sr.]] purchased, refurbished, and reopened the Athenaeum as the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]] in late 1877. An appeal was made to the public for its support leading to $5,000 in tickets being sold for the first performance. (8) There was seating for 1,200. (9)

			The building hosted a variety of events. The 1886 [[DUBUQUE HIGH SCHOOL]] commencement was held in the building. (10) In 1891 the Duncan-Waller was the scene of a boxing match. (11) The Opera House was a thriving operation until 1893, when it was renamed the [[MAIN STREET OPERA HOUSE]]. (12)

	Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.		Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.

Randylyon at 03:44, 22 January 2018

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	In 1864 the Athenaeum Theater was reopened. Although it hosted some of America's finest legitimate theater talent, it ceased to attract star performers when the [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE]] was built. (7)		In 1864 the Athenaeum Theater was reopened. Although it hosted some of America's finest legitimate theater talent, it ceased to attract star performers when the [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE]] was built. (7)

	~~Edward W~~. ~~Duncan~~ and [[WALLER, John Robert Sr.\|John Robert WALLER Sr.]] purchased, refurbished, and reopened the Athenaeum as the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]] in late 1877. An appeal was made to the public for its support leading to $5,000 in tickets being sold for the first performance. (8) There was seating for 1,200. (9) The building hosted a variety of events. The 1886 [[DUBUQUE HIGH SCHOOL]] commencement was held in the building. (10) In 1891 the Duncan-Waller was the scene of a boxing match. (11) The Opera House was a thriving operation until 1893, when it was renamed the [[MAIN STREET OPERA HOUSE]]. (12)		[[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WALLER, John Robert Sr.\|John Robert WALLER Sr.]] purchased, refurbished, and reopened the Athenaeum as the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]] in late 1877. An appeal was made to the public for its support leading to $5,000 in tickets being sold for the first performance. (8) There was seating for 1,200. (9) The building hosted a variety of events. The 1886 [[DUBUQUE HIGH SCHOOL]] commencement was held in the building. (10) In 1891 the Duncan-Waller was the scene of a boxing match. (11) The Opera House was a thriving operation until 1893, when it was renamed the [[MAIN STREET OPERA HOUSE]]. (12)

	Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.		Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.

Randylyon at 03:36, 22 January 2018

2018-01-22T03:36:03Z

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	[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.		[[Image:newb.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]The building, however, sat empty until 1904. Jake Rosenthal secured the lease for the building from its owners [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]], [[EIGHMEY, Charles H.\|Charles H. EIGHMEY]] and [[WOODWARD, James\|James WOODWARD]] and began the process of constructing a vaudeville business. Rosenthal, known nationally for his business success, introduced talking movies to Dubuque, with a movie starring Al Jolson. He was also on a first name basis with such international stars as [[FRISCO, Joe\|Joe FRISCO]] and escape artist Harry Houdini.

	In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It purchased the building which it renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]]and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)		In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It purchased the building which it renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]] and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)

	The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. (20) The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].		The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. (20) The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].

Randylyon at 03:17, 22 January 2018

2018-01-22T03:17:47Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:17, 22 January 2018
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	Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.		Charles Bartell leased the building in 1896 and renamed it [[BARTELL'S DRAMATIC AND VAUDEVILLE THEATRE]]. When Bartell's closed around 1893, the building sat empty.

	The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to ~~alloow~~ him to ~~display~~ his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the old Bartell's building. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers staging to his Coates Opera House. The show returned to the renamed Riverside Park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. ~~The vaudeville show~~ continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (13)		The Coates Theater received its name from J. C. Morris, a man with experience as a theatrical manager. Morris came to Dubuque in 1900 and negotiated with the managers of [[RHOMBERG PARK]] to allow him to present his vaudeville show. When the opportunity arose in June, he leased the old Bartell's building. Morris then convinced the park managers to allow him to move his performers and staging to his Coates Opera House. The show returned to the renamed Riverside Park for Sunday afternoon and evening shows. Vaudeville continued until September when dramatic productions were scheduled. During the winter, Morris announced that comic opera would be presented. (13)

	To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (14) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (15)		To encourage attendance, Morris had electric fans installed through the theater to ensure cool temperatures in the summer. On announced days, ladies were admitted to any part of the theater for ten cents. Children could attend for five cents. (14) On December 22, 1902 one lady was admitted free for each paid reserved ticket. (15)
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	In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It purchased the building which it renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]]and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)		In 1908 the [[DUBUQUE OPERA HOUSE COMPANY]] was incorporated. It purchased the building which it renamed the [[BIJOU THEATER]]and after the close of the vaudeville season in 1909 the entire interior was renovated at a cost of $40,000. The theater was lowered from the second floor to the first floor, two balconies were installed, and four boxes were constructed on each side of the stage. Everything was done to modernize the theater which opened for business as the New Bijou on November 12, 1909. (19)

	The fifty-year old structure was destroyed on the morning of April 7, 1910. (20) The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].		The fifty-year old structure was destroyed by fire on the morning of April 7, 1910. (20) The site then became the location of the [[MAJESTIC THEATRE]].