Cheboygan Opera House

The Cheboygan Opera House, known as the Jewel of the North, is a historic theater located in Cheboygan, Michigan. Managed by the Cheboygan Area Arts Council, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Opera House is a significant cultural landmark in the Straits of Mackinaw area. It receives support from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. ===History=== Constructed in 1877, the Cheboygan Opera House has played a pivotal role in the cultural life of Northern Michigan, particularly during the bustling lumbering era. The building has endured two devastating fires, leading to reconstructions in 1888 and 1903. The current facility houses the original City Hall, Police Department, Fire Department, and a 582-seat theater. After a period of closure spanning approximately two decades, the Opera House was elegantly restored and reopened in 1984. The restoration turned the acoustically superior Victorian theater into a hub for entertainment and the performing arts. ===Mission=== The mission of the Cheboygan Area Arts Council is to foster cultural and educational activities in the Straits Area of Northern Michigan. The council aims to provide services that encourage community participation and appreciation of the arts while also preserving and showcasing the historic Cheboygan Opera House. ===Programs and Events=== The Cheboygan Opera House hosts a variety of programs and events, including dance classes, drum aerobics, art initiatives, music lessons, and virtual youth art shows. It also offers scholarships and has a rich history documented in publications such as "Cheboygan Opera House: The Early Years" by Kathy King Johnson, which covers the history of the Opera House between 1877 and 1927. ===Facilities and Accessibility=== The Opera House includes a seating chart that accommodates a wide audience and ensures accessibility for all guests. The board and staff are dedicated to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment, which includes adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols. ===Community Involvement=== The Cheboygan Opera House is a testament to the community's commitment to the arts. In the face of challenges, including the global Coronavirus pandemic, the Opera House has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Fundraising efforts and government support have played crucial roles in its restoration and preservation. Despite temporary closures, the Cheboygan Opera House remains a beacon of cultural heritage and is poised for future events and performances. ==External Links== * [Official Website] * [Guidestar Profile] ==References== <references/>