Sign Text for Michigan Landmark #L112A:
One of the first municipal theaters in America, the Calumet opened on March 20, 1900, “the greatest social event ever known in copperdom’s metropolis.” The theater contained a magnificent stage and elegant interior decorations, including an electrified copper chandelier. For over a decade, Copper Country audiences witnessed the broad panorama of American legitimate theater, and many prominent stage personalities, both American and European, trod the boards of the Calumet. By the 1920s, motion pictures replaced live theater, and, subsequently, live drama returned to the Calumet. The reopened community theater resumed its position as a focal point of civic pride for the people of Calumet and the Copper Country.
More about Calumet Theatre:
The first show to play at the Calumet Theatre was the touring comic opera, The Highwayman by Reginald DeKoven and Harry B. Smith! In this romance, hunky outlaw, Captain Scarlet, must dodge law enforcement and bounty hunters to win a full pardon and the heart of his true love! The show itself famously featured a real stage coach drawn by four real horses! From there, the Calumet hosted a slew of nationally and internationally famous talent! The likes of Helena Modjeska, John Phillip Sousa, and William S. Hart all put on shows here, and today, the Calumet Theatre is the only historic building left in Keweenaw National Historical Park that still serves its original function!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Pay the entrance fee to help maintain trails, signs, structures, and other visitor services!
- Volunteer at Keweenaw National Historical Park!
- Donate to the Calumet Theatre!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
340 6th St
Calumet Twp, MI 49913
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
See what’s playing next by visiting the theatre’s Events Page!
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