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This is a very significant building which served Brooten from 1913 to 1930 when it burned to the ground. The old Syverson hall was getting weak and old, so this building was a breath of fresh air to everyone. They have basically the same program of dances and entertainment acts as in the past, but this building was new and far better than the old originals.
It was immediately scheduled for dances and entertainment. Swedish plays were popular, such as Yonson the Swede, Ole the cowboy swede and Ole I. Skrathult, a Swedish comedian. Thorstien Skarning was a very popular band. The big Ole show was entertaining with variety, and of course the always candy and treats. The ground floor was occupied by the farmers Coop Store.
There were many interesting plays in the New Opera house but one of the very best was an American Legion sponsored play called “The Womanless Wedding”. It consisted of 80 local men dressed in women’s clothing, wearing lipstick and rouge, producing the most unusual play ever produced in Brooten. The play was directed by a professional company and was a complete success. It played for two completely packed nights. It featured the blushing bride played by the blushing Erick Gulsvig the largest man in town, and by Melvin Samuelson the smallest man in town who was obliged to stand on a chair to kiss the bride at the end of the ceremony. It was a hilarious play from beginning to end with endless songs, and participation by the audience. It was talked about for many years.
The building was the hub of entertainment for years until fire destroyed the building in 1930. A large loss for the entire community. The basement and the building were cleaned out and used as a skating rink in the winter. It is now the Classic theatre.
MOVING PICTURES were popular for years because there were no radio or TV to interfere, and the pictures were black and white. The first color picture was shown in Brooten in February 1930 “The Buccaroo Kid”. Voice was added in 1932, they called it the “talkies”.
ROLLER SKATING became popular in 1914 in the various halls, and was popular on the rough sidewalks and on hard packed dirt streets. After the WPA built new sidewalks in town skating was great. At this time the AudItorium at the Fairgrounds installed a new maple floor for better skating. This skating rink was owned by Clarence Swenson, but Leoyd Mijller was floor manager for 13 years.
CHATAQUA is an Indian word meaning Child. It was a popular type of weekend entertainment held during the summer months under a large tent. There were 14 major events during the week. They were all educational programs for children and for adults. The first Chataqua was held in 1916 and was such high quality, they were hired for another year. This continued each year until 1929 when Radio and Television became more popular. The last one was held in 1929 where the Bonanza Valley bank is now. It had been a valuable Educational event. Some called it an Outside University.
My friend Ole says that the newest dance is called the politician. Two steps forward, One step backward, then a sidestep.
There you have it. We don’t sidestep anything here Ole. We do it the right way and are consistent with our quality and service. We are an excellent bank giving excellent service with your safety and success in mind. We always think of you and offer help for any problems you might have ‘Right Dave?
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