Goodspeed Opera House

East Haddam, CT

The Goodspeed Opera House was built in 1876 by shipping magnate William Goodspeed as a place to house his business interests and to satisfy his own personal interest in theatre. More than 183 musicals have been produced here and many have gone on to receive national recognition.

Known as the tallest wooden structure along the Connecticut River, the Goodspeed Opera House was designed to catch the attention of the once bustling river traffic. It served as a general store, office building and shipping destination for imported and domestic merchandise as well as a way to promote the interests of the East Haddam Community.

Through the years, the Opera House has under gone a series of transformations, including serving as a millitia base during World War 1. However, in 1950 the building had fallen into an incredible state of disrepair and was slated for demolition. Fortunately, a very dedicated and determined group of supporters came together and formed a foundation to rescue the building and restore it to its original glory.

Goodspeed Opera House Web Site: www.goodspeed.org

 

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