'Phantoms of the Opera Hall' go from print to stage

Guest Editorial by Timothy Henderson

As we anticipate the solar eclipse on April 8, and prepare for our new production, “Phantoms of the Opera Hall,” we’d like to share the rich history of the Opera Hall and some of the people who were associated with the building, whose lives were tied to the mysteries of the moon.

Years ago, I purchased an Oct. 22, 1824, edition of the Sentinel. This 200-year-old paper was in remarkably good condition and provided a window into what Lewiston and our country looked like back in the day. There were local ads from shops and farms, but also an entire page dedicated to national and international news. There was an ad featuring presidential candidate Henry Clay and his opponent, Andrew Jackson; and an obituary announcing the death of the king of France, Louis the 18th. Augustus Porter, the postmaster, listed letters that were awaiting pickup from addressees like Sparrow Sage and Gen. S. VanRensselear. Samuel DeVeaux, an entrepreneur in Niagara Falls, sold molasses and white fish by the barrel and “a ready supply of liquor."

Storeowners Calvin Hotchkiss (currently DiCamillo’s) and Amos Tryon (Apple Granny) listed the following prices for their goods: ham, 9 cents a pound; rye, 50 cents a bushel; whiskey, $28 a barrel; corn and beans, 6 cents a bushel. These items came with the disclaimer that they would be sold for "either cash or suitable exchange.” Custom tailoring, including expedited cuttings and fashions were offered by village tailor and UGRR stationmaster, Josiah Tryon.

There were many early residents that didn't gain the notoriety of the Bartons, Porters or Scovells. Their contributions were nevertheless important to the quality of early village life. Oliver Grace, an Irish immigrant, answered the door whenever opportunity knocked. His active memberships in organizations like the Masons, Good Templars and Oddfellows speaks volumes of his standing in the community. These organizations met on the second floor of the Opera Hall, which, too, has survived the test of time. Oliver Grace's name can be found in bold letters at the heading of the 1824 Sentinel edition as its publisher.

Tickets Now Available for ‘Phantoms of the Opera Hall’

Tickets are now available for “Phantoms of the Opera Hall,” to be presented at the Historic Lewiston Opera Hall from April 5-7 – prior to the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. 

Organizers said, “The Opera Hall Players are proud to present this new production that features ‘spirits’ from Lewiston's past who will share their stories and tall tales centered around the history of the Lewiston Opera Hall. Given the awe-inspiring celestial event of the weekend, many tales are tied to the miseries and mysteries of the moon.” 

Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. each night. There is a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday.

Seating is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at https://business.upwardniagara.com/ap/Events/Register/WpMXJE9r.

Please note: The performance venue is on the second floor, accessible only by stairs.

The Historic Lewiston Opera Hall is located at 732 Center St.

“Phantoms of the Opera Hall” is sponsored by Opera Hall Events LLC, Niagara Frontier Publications and the Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce

For more information or sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected]. Find the show on Facebook: “Phantoms of the Opera Hall.”