Built in the late 1800s, the Smyrna Opera House served as a town hall as well as a local gathering spot and entertainment venue.
Remaining primarily dormant for years after being ravaged by fire in 1948, town officials decided to tear the structure down, just as a group of concerned citizens formed the Smyrna-Clayton Heritage Association.
“They wanted a venue where they could offer culture and heritage and artistic programming, so this group of concerned citizens raised over $3.6-million to restore the Opera House to its former splendor.”
That's Opera House Executive Director David Keller, who says the mission of the Opera House plays an important role in the state's arts community.
“We're very proud of the fact that we highlight and feature professional artists, but we also bring in local artists who might not have ever performed on a stage before,” says Keller.
And he's also proud of how the Opera House provides affordable access to the arts and other cultural events.
“We're a place where people can come together...we have this great little gem nestled in the heart of Smyrna and people can come and be entertained and have fun and relax,” Keller said.
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