The "Grand Lady" of Shiner
Auditions
Board of Directors
Contact Information
Directions
Reservations
Schedule
Season Tickets
Thespian Scholarship
In the small Texas town of Shiner is a gem of Texas history, The Shiner Opera House, now known as the Gaslight Theatre. Ground for the Old Shiner Opera House was broken on September 12, 1895. The building was completed on December 1st and began providing entertainment on December 31, 1895.
 |
The stage in the large upstairs hall is a true work of art with the dark wood inlaid and patterned designs framing the borders of the stage. The ornate proscenium arch and vaudeville-style stage are all original. A Firemen’s Ball on that New Year’s Eve was one of the many “Official Grand Openings” for the Opera House. It was used for plays, lodge meetings, political events, debates, town meetings, wedding receptions, balls, parties and banquets, church socials, bazaars, teas and “social hops”. |
The Opera House remained one of the centers of Shiner social life until 1927, and has stood the test of time. After being converted into apartments and later a warehouse, the Gaslight Theatre was given second chance to promote the arts and theatre. After being inactive for many years, in 1975, through the efforts and love of Sister Michelle Belto, a local nun and drama teacher, along with her students, the Gaslight Theatre was born and the Old Opera House lived again. After discovering the Opera House hidden as a storage warehouse, the entire community became involved and went to work. A non-profit organization was formed and a Board of Director’s was set up to manage the theatre’s activities. In 1976, a highlight came when the Gaslight Theatre was designated an historical monument.
The Gaslight Board of Directors is committed to restoring and preserving the Theatre, so the “Grand Lady” is getting a makeover. In 2006 the theatre received a major renovation when the exterior was repainted and new air conditioning installed.
| In August, 2008, the interior became the focus which included replacement of the original stage floor, addition of another side stage, refinishing the floors, and a complete rebuilding of the raised seating area. New bathrooms and kitchen and an additional fire exit, as well as improvements to the lighting and sound systems, and many other improvements were completed. |  |
Today the Gaslight Theatre serves as a dinner theatre, providing contemporary and classic theatre. Talent for productions is all volunteer, as are all the tasks at the theatre, and is drawn from the local area surrounding Shiner.