The Grand Dame of Opera: A Comprehensive Guide to the Historic Waterville Opera House

Introduction

Nestled amidst the charming town of Waterville, Maine, the Waterville Opera House is a beloved cultural landmark that has been captivating audiences for over a century. This magnificent Victorian theater has played an instrumental role in the local arts scene and continues to host a diverse array of performances, from Broadway musicals to classical operas.

History and Significance

The Waterville Opera House was built in the late 19th century during an era of rapid growth and prosperity for the town. The brainchild of local businessman George Colby Chase, the theater opened its doors in 1891 and quickly became a focal point for social and cultural events.

Over the decades, the Opera House has undergone several renovations and expansions. In the 1970s, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its architectural significance and its contribution to the performing arts. Today, the theater is managed by Colby College, which has invested heavily in its preservation and modernization.

Architecture and Design

The Waterville Opera House is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. Its exterior features intricate brickwork, ornate cornices, and a grand arched entrance. The interior is equally impressive, boasting a beautifully decorated auditorium with plush velvet seats, an ornate proscenium arch, and a majestic pipe organ.

Performances and Programming

The Waterville Opera House hosts a wide variety of performances throughout the year. These include:

• Broadway musicals: The Opera House has been a popular stop for touring Broadway shows, showcasing everything from classic comedies to modern blockbusters.
• Classical operas: The theater has a long tradition of hosting renowned opera companies, offering audiences the opportunity to experience timeless works of music and theater.
• Concerts: The Opera House is home to a number of local and regional music groups, providing a platform for up-and-coming artists and established performers alike.
• Community theater: The Waterville Opera House fosters local talent by hosting productions from community theater groups, offering residents the chance to participate in the performing arts.

Ticket Information

Tickets for performances at the Waterville Opera House can be purchased online, by phone, or at the box office. Prices vary depending on the show and seating location. The Opera House also offers a variety of subscription packages for those who wish to attend multiple performances throughout the season.

Seating and Accessibility

The Waterville Opera House has 869 seats, arranged in three tiers:

• Orchestra (Floor): These seats offer the closest view of the stage and are the most expensive.
• Balcony (First Tier): These seats provide a slightly elevated view and are typically less expensive than orchestra seats.
• Gallery (Second Tier): These seats are located at the highest point in the theater and offer a bird's-eye view of the performance.

The Opera House is wheelchair accessible, with accessible seating available in all sections. Assistive listening devices are also available for patrons with hearing impairments.

Behind the Scenes

The Waterville Opera House is more than just a beautiful building; it is also a thriving community of artists, technicians, and staff. Here's a glimpse behind the scenes:

• Staff: The Opera House employs a dedicated team of professionals who ensure that every performance runs smoothly. This includes the box office staff, ushers, stagehands, and house managers.
• Volunteers: A dedicated team of volunteers assists the staff with a variety of tasks, including ushering, ticketing, and fundraising.
• Education and Outreach: The Opera House offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and masterclasses for students and aspiring artists.

Economic Impact

The Waterville Opera House is a significant economic driver for the region. According to a 2018 study, the theater generates over $10 million in annual economic impact for the local community. This includes revenue from ticket sales, concessions, and ancillary businesses, such as restaurants and hotels.

Community Involvement

The Waterville Opera House is deeply involved in the community. In addition to hosting performances, the theater also serves as a venue for community events, such as:

• School graduations: The Opera House is a popular choice for high school and college graduations, providing a grand and memorable setting for these milestones.
• Community gatherings: The theater is often used for community meetings, lectures, and fundraisers.
• Local history: The Opera House is home to a number of historical exhibits that tell the story of the theater and its role in the Waterville community.

Sustainability

The Waterville Opera House is committed to sustainability. The theater has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including:

• Energy efficiency: The Opera House has upgraded its lighting and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption.
• Water conservation: The theater has installed low-flow fixtures and uses rainwater harvesting systems.
• Waste reduction: The Opera House recycles and composts a majority of its waste.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for getting the most out of your visit to the Waterville Opera House:

• Book tickets early: Popular shows often sell out quickly, so it is advisable to purchase tickets as far in advance as possible.
• Join the subscriber program: Subscribers receive discounts on tickets and exclusive benefits, such as early access to shows and meet-and-greets with performers.
• Dress comfortably: The theater can get warm during performances, so it is recommended to dress in layers.
• Arrive early: Allow yourself plenty of time to find your seats and enjoy the ambiance of the theater before the show starts.
• Respect the rules: The Waterville Opera House is a historic building, and it is important to respect the rules and regulations in place to protect its beauty.

Interesting Stories

Over the years, the Waterville Opera House has been the setting for countless memorable events and humorous anecdotes. Here are three stories that capture the theater's unique charm:

The Phantom of the Opera House: Legend has it that the Opera House is haunted by the ghost of a former actor who met an untimely demise on stage. Patrons have reported seeing strange apparitions and hearing disembodied voices, adding to the theater's enigmatic mystique.

The Broadway Mix-Up: During a performance of "The Phantom of the Opera," the actor playing the title role accidentally dropped his mask. The audience erupted in laughter, and the actor continued the performance with a sheepish grin. The incident became a legend among theatergoers and is still recalled with amusement today.

The Cat on the Stage: During a performance of "Cats," a stray cat wandered onto the stage and joined the cast. The cat proceeded to chase its tail, much to the delight of the audience. The performance was delayed for a few minutes as the cast and crew attempted to corral the feline, but the interruption only added to the evening's entertainment value.

What We Learn

These stories remind us that even the most serious and grand of institutions can sometimes succumb to the unexpected. They also highlight the power of laughter and the importance of embracing the unexpected.

Call to Action

Experience the magic of the Waterville Opera House for yourself! Visit the theater's website or call the box office to learn about upcoming performances and book your tickets. Whether you are a seasoned theater enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the Waterville Opera House promises an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Additional Resources

• Waterville Opera House Website
• Colby College Waterville Opera House
• Waterville Historical Society

Tables

Table 1: Waterville Opera House Seating Capacity

Table 2: Waterville Opera House Ticket Prices

Table 3: Waterville Opera House Economic Impact