Elgin Opera House

The Elgin Opera House is a two story Colonial style brick building with a dressed stone foundation. Completed in 1912, it is somewhat unique in being designed to serve the dual functions of housing city government offices and a theater. At its dedication, the Opera House was lauded as one of the finest because of its sharp acoustics and slanted seating arrangement. It was complete with plush draperies, box seats, an orchestra pit, elaborate backdrops and a rococo decor. The Opera House has been newly renovated and features its original motif. The architectural beauty and historic background of the building made it a natural addition to the National Register of Historic Buildings. The building is home to the newly establish performing arts group Friends of the Opera House. Many community events are scheduled at the Opera House. The Opera House Theater shows movies and noted performers are scheduled throughout the year.