Grand Opera House: Fact Sheet

Fact Sheet

Built in 1871 by the Delaware Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons at a cost of $100,000.
Designed by Baltimore Architect Thomas Dixon.
Built in the style of the French Second Empire with Masonic symbolism incorporated in to the cast iron façade.
Live performances of the late 19th century ranged from vaudeville to opera and sports exhibitions.
In 1967, The Grand closed its doors to most events, but continued to screen low caliber films.
December 22, 1971 marked The Grand Opera House's 100-year anniversary, celebrated with a four-hour gala, which is still held annually as a fundraising event.
In 1973, Grand Opera House, Inc. was formed as a non-profit organization.
Vast restoration efforts to The Grand Opera House began in May of 1975 and were completed in April of 1976.

Seating capacity is 1,186, with 452 balcony seats, 684 lower level seats and 50 lift seats.
The proscenium stage is 43 ft. deep x 70 ft. wide, which includes a 12 ft. deep thrust, elevator lift to/from the orchestra pit.
Orchestra pit accommodates up to 50 musicians.

The Grand Opera house presents over 60 shows each season, with approximately 18 different series.
Delaware Symphony Orchestra, Opera Delaware, First State Ballet, Contemporary Stage Company and City Theater Company operate from The Grand Opera House. Most shows are performed either on The Grand mainstage or at The Baby Grand.
The Grand operates year round, with most performances taking place September through May.
In addition to the full and part time staff, The Grand is served by a 22-member Executive Committee, 61-member Board of Trustees, and a volunteer force of approximately 125 people providing ushering and other important service functions.
As a non-profit organization, The Grand Opera House must raise 50 cents for every dollar spent on community projects and performances.