Skip to main content

Happy 100th birthday, Palace Theatre!

Subhead
And thank you, BMAT, for keeping our grand old opera house open and operating

 
The little prairie town of Luverne was changed overnight when its “opera house” opened in September 1915. Founder Herman Jochims spared no expense in outfitting the Palace with the latest and greatest in technology and décor.
The New Palace Theatre was able to offer the finest in stage productions, vaudeville and music entertainment in the world, and its very existence on Luverne’s Main Street legitimized the town’s place in fine arts society.
Located only a few short blocks from the rail line, world renowned entertainers were able to walk to the theatre for the night’s performance before making their way back to board the train for their next stop.
In the Oct. 1, 1915, Rock County Herald, Jochims posted the following advertisement:
“I wish to take this means of thanking my patrons and residents of Luverne for the support and patronage given in the opening of my theatre, the New Palace. I shall endeavor in the future in providing motion pictures and road attractions to serve you as to merit your patronage and continued good will, providing at all times the best attractions available.”  — Yours truly, Herman Jochims.
One hundred years later, Herman Jochims’ pledge to the citizens of Luverne and Rock County remains true, due to the passion and administration of the Palace’s nonprofit board of directors who give generously of their time, talent and creativity. 
The Blue Mound Area Theatre was formed on March 14, 1981, to preserve, manage and maintain the “New Palace.” These board members and their army of community volunteers keep this theater alive without any full-time employees.
As we celebrate the Palace this summer, and as we enjoy its grace and beauty all year round, let’s remember to thank those who preserved the old theatre and worked tirelessly to keep its doors open.
It’s no small task to maintain a successful small-town theater, and while other communities through the decades saw their theaters close down, the Palace Theatre has remained a shining gem in Luverne’s crown.
This is due to local fine arts supporters vigilantly maintaining Jochims’ high standards, with an army of dedicated volunteers conducting fund drives and appealing for public support where needed.
In 2015 BMAT offered a spectacular year of 100th anniversary events with the best in live theatre, musical performances and movies. This weekend marks the Palace’s actual birthday, and a special lineup is set for Sunday.
The silent movie and local live music are offered for free, but donations will be accepted. Now would be a great time to support the Palace with your attendance and donation.
Happy 100th birthday, Palace Theatre, and thank you, volunteers, for keeping our grand theatre alive and well.

You must log in to continue reading. Log in or subscribe today.