Orpheum Theater

The Orpheum.
The Orpheum as it appeared shortly after it was built. Courtesy of Mary Nobles

In 1913, Susanville’s first movie theater opened for business at 804 Main Street. It was a multi-functional building where dances and other social events were held. It should be noted that the first movies to be shown in Susanville occurred in 1907. When the Orpheum first opened, movies were shown usually two to three nights a week. Whatever the case may be, it became one of the most popular social hubs in town. It should also be noted, that the basement of the Orpheum housed a bakery.

In 1921, the Orpheum had competition when the Liberty Theater opened at the present site of Sierra Theater. The Orpheum adapted and at times had a skating rink and bowling alley. Many a civic organization held meetings and social fundraisers there. On May 16, 1963, Paul Langslet had the building demolished for a parking/used car lot.

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