There are many beautiful buildings on Main Street, but none have quite the regal, ornate presence as the Main Street Opera House. And it makes sense – this is the building directly facing Walt’s private apartment. If it’s the boss’ view, it has to be good. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this building so special.
The Opera House appeared in concept art for the street as early as 1953, and was the first building constructed on the street. From 1954 – 1961 it served as the mill, quite literally helping the rest of the street take form. It wasn’t until 1965’s debut of Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln that the Opera House actually functioned as a working theater.
In researching Gilded Age and turn-of-the-century opera houses, I wasn’t able to find one with a strong resemblance to Main Street’s version. If you happen to know which building this theater was modeled after, please let me know! However, I was able to identify many elements from opera houses of the time period.
See this strange looking faces inside the gold detailing? Those are the Comedy and Tragedy masks, common symbols of the extremes of human emotion expressed in theater.
From top to bottom, the theater includes ornate details. Multilayered crown molding, wrought iron railings, and gold accents surround every window and doorway. In the photo above, you’ll see the ticket window covered by an ad promoting Mr. Lincoln’s show, which includes a photo of the building from 1965.
The doors to theater also contain patterns reminiscent of art deco – about two decades ahead of Main Street’s time period.
The Opera House receives some subtle seasonal decor – typically bunting and garlands on its lamp posts. But throughout every season, the building is one of the highlights of Main Street’s architecture. It’s one of the first buildings guests see when they arrive in the park, and one of the last they see on the way out. I think it leaves quite an impression in either case.
