GRAND OPERA HOUSE - Revision history

Randylyon at 15:28, 27 May 2023

2023-05-27T15:28:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:28, 27 May 2023
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	In 1874 it was rumored that a steamboat captain with an estimated $300,000 was interested in investing part of his money in an opera house. A hotel would be added at a future time. (8)		In 1874 it was rumored that a steamboat captain with an estimated $300,000 was interested in investing part of his money in an opera house. A hotel would be added at a future time. (8)

	In 1882, only six years following the opening of the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]], another effort was started to construct a new opera house. (9) William Bradley Jr. with two partners commissioned the construction of the Grand Opera House. Bradley owned 98% of [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE, INC.]] and within two or three years of the building's completion he bought out the other investors. After he died, the ownership was passed on to Mary Bradley Chalmers, his daughter. She hired [[YIANNIAS, Nickas J.\|Nickas J. YIANNIAS]] as the manager. Mary Bradley Chalmers owned the building until she sold it to Richard Davies of Des Moines, IA. The Grand Opera House was in the Bradley family for 80 years. (10)		In 1882, only six years following the opening of the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]], another effort was started to construct a new opera house. In 2023 Georgie and Stephanie Yiannias, a name prominent in Dubuque theater history, discovered a booklet containing the signatures of Dubuque residents who made financial pledges toward the construction. (9) William Bradley Jr. with two partners commissioned the construction of the Grand Opera House. Bradley owned 98% of [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE, INC.]] and within two or three years of the building's completion he bought out the other investors. After he died, the ownership was passed on to Mary Bradley Chalmers, his daughter. She hired [[YIANNIAS, Nickas J.\|Nickas J. YIANNIAS]] as the manager. Mary Bradley Chalmers owned the building until she sold it to Richard Davies of Des Moines, IA. The Grand Opera House was in the Bradley family for 80 years. (10)

	Between 1889 and 1890, the Grand Opera House was built at a cost estimated to be $100,000. Willoughby Edbrooke, designer of many buildings on Ellis Island, the U.S Treasury building, and the old post office in Washington, D.C., was the architect. He chose [[RICHARDSONIAN ROMANESQUE ARCHITECTURE]] for the style and red sandstone and brick manufactured in Dubuque for the materials. The interior housed a 1,100 seat auditorium, two balconies, eight boxes and stall, and a stage large enough for major theatrical productions. (11) The proscenium opening was 35-feet wide and 25-feet high. The total stage depth was 42-feet. (12) Gas fixtures were used until a dynamo could be connected to generate electric power. (13) The fresco and decoration work was awarded to Mitchell & Holbeck of Chicago for a cost of $1,500. (14)		Between 1889 and 1890, the Grand Opera House was built at a cost estimated to be $100,000. Willoughby Edbrooke, designer of many buildings on Ellis Island, the U.S Treasury building, and the old post office in Washington, D.C., was the architect. He chose [[RICHARDSONIAN ROMANESQUE ARCHITECTURE]] for the style and red sandstone and brick manufactured in Dubuque for the materials. The interior housed a 1,100 seat auditorium, two balconies, eight boxes and stall, and a stage large enough for major theatrical productions. (11) The proscenium opening was 35-feet wide and 25-feet high. The total stage depth was 42-feet. (12) Gas fixtures were used until a dynamo could be connected to generate electric power. (13) The fresco and decoration work was awarded to Mitchell & Holbeck of Chicago for a cost of $1,500. (14)

Randylyon at 15:27, 9 February 2021

2021-02-09T15:27:54Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:27, 9 February 2021
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	In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (30)		In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (30)

	In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation.		In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation. This began in 2005 with restoring the theater's original facade and fly space; updating its green room, dressing rooms, backstage area and restrooms; and modernizing its administrative offices, inner and outer lobbies, house and seating. Years later the modernization continued with the addition of an elevator, new chandelier, and a restored orchestra area. (31)

	In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (31)		In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (32)

	[[Image:grand1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Article about opening night of the Grand Opera House. Photo courtesy: Paul Hemmer and Telegraph Herald]]		[[Image:grand1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Article about opening night of the Grand Opera House. Photo courtesy: Paul Hemmer and Telegraph Herald]]
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	30. "Chronology," ''Telegraph Herald'', January 1, 2004, p. 45		30. "Chronology," ''Telegraph Herald'', January 1, 2004, p. 45

	31. Ibid.		31. Gloss, Megan, "Curtain Call," ''Telegraph Herald'', February 4, 2021, p. 8A

			32. Ibid.

	Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013, email--March 26, 2019		Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013, email--March 26, 2019

Randylyon at 15:40, 26 March 2019

2019-03-26T15:40:43Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:40, 26 March 2019
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	The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)		The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)

	In 1953 [[YIANNIAS, James N.\|James N. YIANNIAS]], ~~general manager of the Maclay and Yiannias theaters~~, announced that the Grand would be converted to show CinemaScope, a new wide-screen film technique. Motion pictures would be projected on a screen 34 feet wide and 17 feet high as compared to the current screen which was 16 feet wide and 12 feet high. The first film to be shown was an extended engagement of "The Robe," said to be one of the most expensive pictures made to that time. (26)		In 1953 [[YIANNIAS, James N.\|James N. YIANNIAS]], then an employee, announced that the Grand would be converted to show CinemaScope, a new wide-screen film technique. Motion pictures would be projected on a screen 34 feet wide and 17 feet high as compared to the current screen which was 16 feet wide and 12 feet high. The first film to be shown was an extended engagement of "The Robe," said to be one of the most expensive pictures made to that time. (26)

	[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (27)		[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (27)
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	31. Ibid.		31. Ibid.

	Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013		Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013, email--March 26, 2019

	Glenn, George, D. and Poole, Richard L. '''The Opera Houses of Iowa''' Ames: Iowa State Press, 1993		Glenn, George, D. and Poole, Richard L. '''The Opera Houses of Iowa''' Ames: Iowa State Press, 1993

Randylyon at 02:26, 14 February 2019

2019-02-14T02:26:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:26, 14 February 2019
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	In 1874 it was rumored that a steamboat captain with an estimated $300,000 was interested in investing part of his money in an opera house. A hotel would be added at a future time. (8)		In 1874 it was rumored that a steamboat captain with an estimated $300,000 was interested in investing part of his money in an opera house. A hotel would be added at a future time. (8)

	In 1882, only six years following the opening of the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]], another effort was started to construct a new opera house. (9) William Bradley Jr. with two partners commissioned the construction of the Grand Opera House. Bradley owned 98% of [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE, INC.]] and within two or three years of the building's completion he bought out the other investors. After he died, the ownership was passed on to Mary Bradley Chalmers, his daughter. She hired [[YIANNIAS, ~~Nicholas~~ J.\|~~Nicholas~~ J. YIANNIAS]] as the manager. Mary Bradley Chalmers owned the building until she sold it to Richard Davies of Des Moines, IA. The Grand Opera House was in the Bradley family for 80 years. (10)		In 1882, only six years following the opening of the [[DUNCAN-WALLER OPERA HOUSE]], another effort was started to construct a new opera house. (9) William Bradley Jr. with two partners commissioned the construction of the Grand Opera House. Bradley owned 98% of [[GRAND OPERA HOUSE, INC.]] and within two or three years of the building's completion he bought out the other investors. After he died, the ownership was passed on to Mary Bradley Chalmers, his daughter. She hired [[YIANNIAS, Nickas J.\|Nickas J. YIANNIAS]] as the manager. Mary Bradley Chalmers owned the building until she sold it to Richard Davies of Des Moines, IA. The Grand Opera House was in the Bradley family for 80 years. (10)

	Between 1889 and 1890, the Grand Opera House was built at a cost estimated to be $100,000. Willoughby Edbrooke, designer of many buildings on Ellis Island, the U.S Treasury building, and the old post office in Washington, D.C., was the architect. He chose [[RICHARDSONIAN ROMANESQUE ARCHITECTURE]] for the style and red sandstone and brick manufactured in Dubuque for the materials. The interior housed a 1,100 seat auditorium, two balconies, eight boxes and stall, and a stage large enough for major theatrical productions. (11) The proscenium opening was 35-feet wide and 25-feet high. The total stage depth was 42-feet. (12) Gas fixtures were used until a dynamo could be connected to generate electric power. (13) The fresco and decoration work was awarded to Mitchell & Holbeck of Chicago for a cost of $1,500. (14)		Between 1889 and 1890, the Grand Opera House was built at a cost estimated to be $100,000. Willoughby Edbrooke, designer of many buildings on Ellis Island, the U.S Treasury building, and the old post office in Washington, D.C., was the architect. He chose [[RICHARDSONIAN ROMANESQUE ARCHITECTURE]] for the style and red sandstone and brick manufactured in Dubuque for the materials. The interior housed a 1,100 seat auditorium, two balconies, eight boxes and stall, and a stage large enough for major theatrical productions. (11) The proscenium opening was 35-feet wide and 25-feet high. The total stage depth was 42-feet. (12) Gas fixtures were used until a dynamo could be connected to generate electric power. (13) The fresco and decoration work was awarded to Mitchell & Holbeck of Chicago for a cost of $1,500. (14)

Randylyon at 02:20, 14 February 2019

2019-02-14T02:20:46Z

Randylyon at 02:46, 14 August 2018

2018-08-14T02:46:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:46, 14 August 2018
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	[[Category: Landmarks]]		[[Category: Landmarks]]
	[[Category: Theater]]		[[Category: Theater]]
			[[Category: Stock Certificate]]

Randylyon at 03:41, 22 April 2018

2018-04-22T03:41:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:41, 22 April 2018
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	The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)		The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)

	In 1953 [[YIANNIAS, James\|James YIANNIAS]], general manager of the Maclay and Yiannias theaters, announced that the Grand would be converted to show CinemaScope, a new wide-screen film technique. Motion pictures would be projected on a screen 34 feet wide and 17 feet high as compared to the current screen which was 16 feet wide and 12 feet high. The first film to be shown was an extended engagement of "The Robe," said to be one of the most expensive pictures made to that time. (26)		In 1953 [[YIANNIAS, James N.\|James N. YIANNIAS]], general manager of the Maclay and Yiannias theaters, announced that the Grand would be converted to show CinemaScope, a new wide-screen film technique. Motion pictures would be projected on a screen 34 feet wide and 17 feet high as compared to the current screen which was 16 feet wide and 12 feet high. The first film to be shown was an extended engagement of "The Robe," said to be one of the most expensive pictures made to that time. (26)

	[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (27)		[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (27)

Randylyon at 03:40, 22 April 2018

2018-04-22T03:40:24Z

Randylyon at 02:41, 27 March 2018

2018-03-27T02:41:00Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:41, 27 March 2018
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	In its first twenty-eight years, the Grand ran in the red only six times due to expensive improvements. Reservation of seats began at 9:00 a.m. one day in advance of a performance. Telephone reservations were accepted until 6:00 p.m. of the same day. Doors were opened for the evening performance at 7:30 p.m. and for the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances began at 8:15 p.m. and matinees started at 2:30 p.m. Season programs carried the names of cast members and advertisements from many local companies.		In its first twenty-eight years, the Grand ran in the red only six times due to expensive improvements. Reservation of seats began at 9:00 a.m. one day in advance of a performance. Telephone reservations were accepted until 6:00 p.m. of the same day. Doors were opened for the evening performance at 7:30 p.m. and for the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances began at 8:15 p.m. and matinees started at 2:30 p.m. Season programs carried the names of cast members and advertisements from many local companies.

	The greatest profits came from movies, first shown in the Grand Theater in 1915. A "fly-in" screen was installed and silent films were shown with piano, theater organ, or small orchestra. (22) The first year's profits, $15,488, were nearly three times better than the best year using live actors. Legitimate theater profits sank to $4,500 by 1928 while the theater made $69,000 showing such films as ''The Private Life of Helen of Troy''. ~~Until recent years,~~ the last live theatrical performance was a ~~tourist~~ musical production of "Desert Song" on March 15, 1929. (23) ~~In 1929 the building was renamed the [[SPENSLEY THEATER]] reflecting the management of the theater by [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]] through 1933.~~		The greatest profits came from movies, first shown in the Grand Theater in 1915. A "fly-in" screen was installed and silent films were shown with piano, theater organ, or small orchestra. (22) The first year's profits, $15,488, were nearly three times better than the best year using live actors. Legitimate theater profits sank to $4,500 by 1928 while the theater made $69,000 showing such films as ''The Private Life of Helen of Troy''. One of the last live theatrical performance was a touring musical production of "Desert Song" on March 15, 1929. (23)

	The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (24)		The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)

	[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (25)		[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (26)

	[[Image:grandm.png\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Grand Theatre showing movies.]]		[[Image:grandm.png\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Grand Theatre showing movies.]]
	The opening of movie theaters on the west-side of Dubuque resulted in the Grand showing second and third run films for one dollar. The Grand, Dubuque's only surviving downtown movie house, was sold in 1972 to Richard Davis of Des Moines who sold his interest to the Dubinsky Brothers in 1976. The theater was closed in 1985 and remained vacant. The purchase for $86,000 of the Grand by the [[BARN COMMUNITY THEATER]], live performances returned to the stage with the musical "Tintypes" on August 14, 1986. (26)		The opening of movie theaters on the west-side of Dubuque resulted in the Grand showing second and third run films for one dollar. The Grand, Dubuque's only surviving downtown movie house, was sold in 1972 to Richard Davis of Des Moines who sold his interest to the Dubinsky Brothers in 1976. The theater was closed in 1985 and remained vacant. The purchase for $86,000 of the Grand by the [[BARN COMMUNITY THEATER]], live performances returned to the stage with the musical "Tintypes" on August 14, 1986. (27)

	[[Image:imp171.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp171.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:imp172.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp172.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	In 1994 the Grand received a $100,000 city loan enabling the exterior of the building to be renovated from its current porcelain-covered metal facade to its original red sandstone. The money was the first loan from a $260,000 fund the city had established to help revitalize the downtown. The money in the fund came from the city's tax increment district program which allowed the city to capture part of the taxes paid by downtown property owners to encourage economic development. The loan carried 3% interest and did not have to be repaid for three years. Interest, however, would be paid. (27)		In 1994 the Grand received a $100,000 city loan enabling the exterior of the building to be renovated from its current porcelain-covered metal facade to its original red sandstone. The money was the first loan from a $260,000 fund the city had established to help revitalize the downtown. The money in the fund came from the city's tax increment district program which allowed the city to capture part of the taxes paid by downtown property owners to encourage economic development. The loan carried 3% interest and did not have to be repaid for three years. Interest, however, would be paid. (28)

	In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (28)		In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (29)

	In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation. (29)		In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation. (3)

	In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (30)		In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (30)

Randylyon at 02:27, 27 March 2018

2018-03-27T02:27:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:27, 27 March 2018
Line 52:		Line 52:
	In its first twenty-eight years, the Grand ran in the red only six times due to expensive improvements. Reservation of seats began at 9:00 a.m. one day in advance of a performance. Telephone reservations were accepted until 6:00 p.m. of the same day. Doors were opened for the evening performance at 7:30 p.m. and for the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances began at 8:15 p.m. and matinees started at 2:30 p.m. Season programs carried the names of cast members and advertisements from many local companies.		In its first twenty-eight years, the Grand ran in the red only six times due to expensive improvements. Reservation of seats began at 9:00 a.m. one day in advance of a performance. Telephone reservations were accepted until 6:00 p.m. of the same day. Doors were opened for the evening performance at 7:30 p.m. and for the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances began at 8:15 p.m. and matinees started at 2:30 p.m. Season programs carried the names of cast members and advertisements from many local companies.

	The greatest profits came from movies, first shown in the Grand Theater in 1915. A "fly-in" screen was installed and silent films were shown with piano, theater organ, or small orchestra. (22) The first year's profits, $15,488, were nearly three times better than the best year using live actors. Legitimate theater profits sank to $4,500 by 1928 while the theater made $69,000 showing such films as ''The Private Life of Helen of Troy''. Until recent years, the last live theatrical performance was a production of ~~the~~ "~~Merry Wives of Windsor~~" ~~in 1928~~. In 1929 the building was renamed [[SPENSLEY ~~(THE)~~]] reflecting the management of the theater by [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]] through 1933.		The greatest profits came from movies, first shown in the Grand Theater in 1915. A "fly-in" screen was installed and silent films were shown with piano, theater organ, or small orchestra. (22) The first year's profits, $15,488, were nearly three times better than the best year using live actors. Legitimate theater profits sank to $4,500 by 1928 while the theater made $69,000 showing such films as ''The Private Life of Helen of Troy''. Until recent years, the last live theatrical performance was a tourist musical production of "Desert Song" on March 15, 1929. (23) In 1929 the building was renamed the [[SPENSLEY THEATER]] reflecting the management of the theater by [[SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.\|Harker Brentnal SPENSLEY, Sr.]] through 1933.

	The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (23)		The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (24)

	[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (24)		[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (25)

	[[Image:grandm.png\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Grand Theatre showing movies.]]		[[Image:grandm.png\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Grand Theatre showing movies.]]
	The opening of movie theaters on the west-side of Dubuque resulted in the Grand showing second and third run films for one dollar. The Grand, Dubuque's only surviving downtown movie house, was sold in 1972 to Richard Davis of Des Moines who sold his interest to the Dubinsky Brothers in 1976. The theater was closed in 1985 and remained vacant. The purchase for $86,000 of the Grand by the [[BARN COMMUNITY THEATER]], live performances returned to the stage with the musical "Tintypes" on August 14, 1986. (25)		The opening of movie theaters on the west-side of Dubuque resulted in the Grand showing second and third run films for one dollar. The Grand, Dubuque's only surviving downtown movie house, was sold in 1972 to Richard Davis of Des Moines who sold his interest to the Dubinsky Brothers in 1976. The theater was closed in 1985 and remained vacant. The purchase for $86,000 of the Grand by the [[BARN COMMUNITY THEATER]], live performances returned to the stage with the musical "Tintypes" on August 14, 1986. (26)

	[[Image:imp171.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp171.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:imp172.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp172.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	In 1994 the Grand received a $100,000 city loan enabling the exterior of the building to be renovated from its current porcelain-covered metal facade to its original red sandstone. The money was the first loan from a $260,000 fund the city had established to help revitalize the downtown. The money in the fund came from the city's tax increment district program which allowed the city to capture part of the taxes paid by downtown property owners to encourage economic development. The loan carried 3% interest and did not have to be repaid for three years. Interest, however, would be paid. (26)		In 1994 the Grand received a $100,000 city loan enabling the exterior of the building to be renovated from its current porcelain-covered metal facade to its original red sandstone. The money was the first loan from a $260,000 fund the city had established to help revitalize the downtown. The money in the fund came from the city's tax increment district program which allowed the city to capture part of the taxes paid by downtown property owners to encourage economic development. The loan carried 3% interest and did not have to be repaid for three years. Interest, however, would be paid. (27)

	In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (27)		In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (28)

	In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation. (28)		In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation. (29)

	In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (29)		In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (30)

	[[Image:grand1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Article about opening night of the Grand Opera House. Photo courtesy: Paul Hemmer and Telegraph Herald]]		[[Image:grand1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Article about opening night of the Grand Opera House. Photo courtesy: Paul Hemmer and Telegraph Herald]]
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	22. Ibid.		22. Ibid.

	23. ~~Ibid~~.		23. Hemmer, Paul. e-mail, March 17, 2018

	24~~. Tighe, Mike~~. "~~Strand, Grand Theaters Won't Switch to Triple-X,~~" ~~''Dubuque Telegraph Herald'', August 6, 1972, p. 1A~~		24. "Our History"

	25. "~~Our History~~," p. 11		25. Tighe, Mike. "Strand, Grand Theaters Won't Switch to Triple-X," ''Dubuque Telegraph Herald'', August 6, 1972, p. 1A

	26~~. Eiler, Donnelle~~. "~~Dubuque to Lend $100,000 for Grand Renovation~~," ~~''Telegraph Herald'', March 10, 1994,~~ p. 2A		26. "Our History," p. 11

	27. "~~Our History~~"		27. Eiler, Donnelle. "Dubuque to Lend $100,000 for Grand Renovation," ''Telegraph Herald'', March 10, 1994, p. 2A

	28. "~~Chronology,~~" ~~''Telegraph Herald'', January 1, 2004, p. 45~~		28. "Our History"

	29. Ibid.		29. "Chronology," ''Telegraph Herald'', January 1, 2004, p. 45

			30. Ibid.

	Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013		Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:20, 14 February 2019
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	event in the history of the city. (16)		event in the history of the city. (16)

	The first production was George Bizet's "Carmen" presented by the Hess Opera Company. The program was watched by an audience estimated in excess of eight hundred who paid $5.00 each to see the cast of sixty-five performers and orchestra. (17) The largest theater ever built in the city, the Grand had 1,356 seats and a mammoth stage stretching thirty-nine feet from front to back. Actors made costume changes next door in an old house which was connected to the theater by a tunnel. Originally illuminated by gas, the building was lighted by gas and electricity by 1897.		The first production was George Bizet's "Carmen" presented by the Hess Opera Company with sixty-five people. (17) The program was watched by an audience estimated in excess of eight hundred who paid $5.00 each to see the cast of sixty-five performers and orchestra. (18) The largest theater ever built in the city, the Grand had 1,356 seats and a mammoth stage stretching thirty-nine feet from front to back. Actors made costume changes next door in an old house which was connected to the theater by a tunnel. Originally illuminated by gas, the building was lighted by gas and electricity by 1897.

	Proposals to purchase the Grand occurred many times. In April and May 1901 representatives of the Henderson Syndicate which owned opera houses in several western cities met with Bradley to discuss an acquisition. (18) The meeting in May resulted an an exchange of proposals which ended up $15,000 apart. (19)		Proposals to purchase the Grand occurred many times. In April and May 1901 representatives of the Henderson Syndicate which owned opera houses in several western cities met with Bradley to discuss an acquisition. (19) The meeting in May resulted an an exchange of proposals which ended up $15,000 apart. (20)

	[[Image:bryan.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Prominent speakers also appeared to huge crowds. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:bryan.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Prominent speakers also appeared to huge crowds. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]

	Historians of theater claim that in the "Golden Era," Dubuque residents saw more big shows than any other city of comparable size in the United States. (20) From its opening through 1928, over 2,600 different live theater shows were performed in the Grand. Such well-known actors and actresses as Ethel Barrymore, George M. Cohan, and Lillian Russell added to the excitement on special occasions. Henry Fonda played Hamlet on the Grand's stage in 1923. (21) Perhaps the Grand's most elaborate production was "Ben Hur" complete with elephants, horses, and chariots-on stage.		Historians of theater claim that in the "Golden Era," Dubuque residents saw more big shows than any other city of comparable size in the United States. (21) From its opening through 1928, over 2,600 different live theater shows were performed in the Grand. Such well-known actors and actresses as Ethel Barrymore, George M. Cohan, and Lillian Russell added to the excitement on special occasions. Henry Fonda played Hamlet on the Grand's stage in 1923. (22) Perhaps the Grand's most elaborate production was "Ben Hur" complete with elephants, horses, and chariots-on stage.
	[[Image:goh1900.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|1900 Season. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:goh1900.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|1900 Season. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	In its first twenty-eight years, the Grand ran in the red only six times due to expensive improvements. Reservation of seats began at 9:00 a.m. one day in advance of a performance. Telephone reservations were accepted until 6:00 p.m. of the same day. Doors were opened for the evening performance at 7:30 p.m. and for the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances began at 8:15 p.m. and matinees started at 2:30 p.m. Season programs carried the names of cast members and advertisements from many local companies.		In its first twenty-eight years, the Grand ran in the red only six times due to expensive improvements. Reservation of seats began at 9:00 a.m. one day in advance of a performance. Telephone reservations were accepted until 6:00 p.m. of the same day. Doors were opened for the evening performance at 7:30 p.m. and for the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances began at 8:15 p.m. and matinees started at 2:30 p.m. Season programs carried the names of cast members and advertisements from many local companies.

	The greatest profits came from movies, first shown in the Grand Theater in 1915. A "fly-in" screen was installed and silent films were shown with piano, theater organ, or small orchestra. (22) The first year's profits, $15,488, were nearly three times better than the best year using live actors. Legitimate theater profits sank to $4,500 by 1928 while the theater made $69,000 showing such films as ''The Private Life of Helen of Troy''. One of the last live theatrical performance was a touring musical production of "Desert Song" on March 15, 1929. (23)		The greatest profits came from movies, first shown in the Grand Theater in 1915. A "fly-in" screen was installed and silent films were shown with piano, theater organ, or small orchestra. (23) The first year's profits, $15,488, were nearly three times better than the best year using live actors. Legitimate theater profits sank to $4,500 by 1928 while the theater made $69,000 showing such films as ''The Private Life of Helen of Troy''. One of the last live theatrical performance was a touring musical production of "Desert Song" on March 15, 1929. (24)

	The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)		The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)
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	16. McClain Frank. "Grand Opera House Celebrates 125 Years of Entertaining Dubuque," ''The Golden View'', August, 2015, p. 1		16. McClain Frank. "Grand Opera House Celebrates 125 Years of Entertaining Dubuque," ''The Golden View'', August, 2015, p. 1

	17. ~~Ibid~~.		17. Kalvelage, Clark, "Ghosts of the Grand's Glorious Past--Do They Still Cling Backstage, '''Telegraph-Herald''', July 15, 1957, p. 1

	18. "Want the Grand," ''Dubuque Daily Telegraph'', May 1, 1901, p. 4		18. "Want the Grand," ''Dubuque Daily Telegraph'', May 1, 1901, p. 4

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:40, 22 April 2018
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	The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)		The Grand was closed in 1930 for three months of remodeling including the removal of the second balcony and the box seats. The orchestra pit was covered and the semi-circular stage front was straightened. Replacing the second floor dressing rooms and hallway to the second floor balcony were two large fireproof projection rooms. (25)

	[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (26)		In 1953 [[YIANNIAS, James\|James YIANNIAS]], general manager of the Maclay and Yiannias theaters, announced that the Grand would be converted to show CinemaScope, a new wide-screen film technique. Motion pictures would be projected on a screen 34 feet wide and 17 feet high as compared to the current screen which was 16 feet wide and 12 feet high. The first film to be shown was an extended engagement of "The Robe," said to be one of the most expensive pictures made to that time. (26)

			[[Image:interior.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Interior after renovations.]]In 1972 [[BRADLEY THEATRES]] sold the Grand and Strand to Richard L. Davis. Davis had managed the [[DUBUQUE DRIVE-IN]] from 1950 to 1955 and at the time of the Dubuque purchase owned the Pioneer Drive-In and Cinema I and II in Des Moines. He had constructed seven first-run theaters in Des Moines and had brought the first cinerama theater to the state. (27)

	[[Image:grandm.png\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Grand Theatre showing movies.]]		[[Image:grandm.png\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Grand Theatre showing movies.]]
	The opening of movie theaters on the west-side of Dubuque resulted in the Grand showing second and third run films for one dollar. The Grand, Dubuque's only surviving downtown movie house, was sold in 1972 to Richard Davis of Des Moines who sold his interest to the Dubinsky Brothers in 1976. The theater was closed in 1985 and remained vacant. The purchase for $86,000 of the Grand by the [[BARN COMMUNITY THEATER]], live performances returned to the stage with the musical "Tintypes" on August 14, 1986. (27)		The opening of movie theaters on the west-side of Dubuque resulted in the Grand showing second and third run films for one dollar. The Grand, Dubuque's only surviving downtown movie house, was sold in 1972 to Richard Davis of Des Moines who sold his interest to the Dubinsky Brothers in 1976. The theater was closed in 1985 and remained vacant. The purchase for $86,000 of the Grand by the [[BARN COMMUNITY THEATER]], live performances returned to the stage with the musical "Tintypes" on August 14, 1986. (28)

	[[Image:imp171.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp171.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:imp172.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp172.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	In 1994 the Grand received a $100,000 city loan enabling the exterior of the building to be renovated from its current porcelain-covered metal facade to its original red sandstone. The money was the first loan from a $260,000 fund the city had established to help revitalize the downtown. The money in the fund came from the city's tax increment district program which allowed the city to capture part of the taxes paid by downtown property owners to encourage economic development. The loan carried 3% interest and did not have to be repaid for three years. Interest, however, would be paid. (28)		In 1994 the Grand received a $100,000 city loan enabling the exterior of the building to be renovated from its current porcelain-covered metal facade to its original red sandstone. The money was the first loan from a $260,000 fund the city had established to help revitalize the downtown. The money in the fund came from the city's tax increment district program which allowed the city to capture part of the taxes paid by downtown property owners to encourage economic development. The loan carried 3% interest and did not have to be repaid for three years. Interest, however, would be paid. (29)

	In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (29)		In 1998 the Board of Directors launched another fundraising campaign to restore the building to its appearance in 1890. Among the major contributors were the Falb Family Foundation, John and Alice Butler, and the Woodward Foundation. A bequest from the estate of Ervin and Alice Hafeman allowed the restoration of the orchestra area that had been closed since 1928. To make the building handicapped accessible, a glass elevator was added in 2010. The building had been listed on the [[NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES]] since 2001. (30)

	In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation. ~~(3)~~		In 2003 the Grand Opera House was the recipient of a $200,000 Community Attraction and Tourism grant from Vision Iowa. The money was scheduled for restoration and renovation.

	In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (30)		In 2015 the facility was owned by the Grand Opera House Foundation. The board of directors provided guidance to the paid staff and volunteers. Funding came principally through ticket sales, an annual campaign, show sponsors, playbill ad sales, and rentals. (31)

	[[Image:grand1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Article about opening night of the Grand Opera House. Photo courtesy: Paul Hemmer and Telegraph Herald]]		[[Image:grand1.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Article about opening night of the Grand Opera House. Photo courtesy: Paul Hemmer and Telegraph Herald]]
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	25. Tighe, Mike. "Strand, Grand Theaters Won't Switch to Triple-X," ''Dubuque Telegraph Herald'', August 6, 1972, p. 1A		25. Tighe, Mike. "Strand, Grand Theaters Won't Switch to Triple-X," ''Dubuque Telegraph Herald'', August 6, 1972, p. 1A

	26. "Our History," p. 11		26. "Grand to Be Equipped For CinemaScope Soon," ''Telegraph-Herald'', October 18, 1953, p. 4

			27. "Our History," p. 11

	27. Eiler, Donnelle. "Dubuque to Lend $100,000 for Grand Renovation," ''Telegraph Herald'', March 10, 1994, p. 2A		28. Eiler, Donnelle. "Dubuque to Lend $100,000 for Grand Renovation," ''Telegraph Herald'', March 10, 1994, p. 2A

	28. "Our History"		29. "Our History"

	29. "Chronology," ''Telegraph Herald'', January 1, 2004, p. 45		30. "Chronology," ''Telegraph Herald'', January 1, 2004, p. 45

	30. Ibid.		31. Ibid.

	Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013		Bradley and Diane Chalmers. email--May 22, 2013