Crosswell Opera House
The
Croswell Opera House, Michigan's Oldest Theatre, has been at the center of
Adrian's downtown for 141 years and continues to be a center for the arts in
Lenawee County.
Traveling acting companies, bands and famous orators in the 1800s and 1900s, movies, both silent and talking, from 1921 to 1967, and the return to live theater performances in 1968. Today the theater has a reputation for presenting quality musicals and plays with the help of its community and equity actors and volunteers.
When
it first opened, the Croswell provided entertainment to Lenawee County and
the surrounding area. Concerts, lectures, vaudeville acts, minstrel shows,
and various educational activities could be seen at the theater. Legendary
figures including Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglas and Edwin Booth,
graced the stage throughout the years.
In 1921, the Croswell was turned into a movie theatre and would remain so
until 1967 when it was scheduled for destruction. However, the Adrian
Foundation saved the building and the Croswell Opera House and Fine Arts
Association was developed to promote and perpetuate the arts and to preserve
the heritage of its historic building. During this time, the Croswell served
as a venue for community theatre, concerts and lectures and provided a home
for the Junior Town Hall series of professional theatre groups for children.
The Croswell has also served as a rental facility and auditorium for school
plays, musicals, and other various events.