Free history tours of Smith Opera House continue through October

GENEVA NY --- While the historic Smith Opera House is a venue where fascinating stories unfold via film and the performing arts, the building itself has its own compelling stories that have shaped the people and culture of Geneva and the Finger Lakes region since 1894.

The public is invited to experience a bit of Smith lore and enjoy its unique architecture and decor via a historic tour of the theater. These tours began in June as the beginning of a year-long celebration of the Smith Opera House’s 125th anniversary, which takes place Oct. 29, 2019.

The Smith has updated its fall schedule for these tours. The 10 a.m.  Wednesday morning tours have been extended through October (10 a.m. on the Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31). Please note that the previously scheduled Saturday tours have been cancelled.

The history shared in these tours springs from a research project led by Dr. Chris Woodworth, associate professor of theatre at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and her summer research assistants, Austin Jennings and Margaret (Gretty) Hollister. Woodworth will lead the October tours.

While the tours are free, donations are gladly accepted. No registration is required. Tour participants should meet at the front of the theater at 82 Seneca St., Geneva. The tours will last approximately 45 minutes. Please note that the tour may include visiting the theater’s balcony, which is not handicap-accessible. There is free public parking across the street from the theater.

To learn more about the tours, directions to The Smith and upcoming events, visit www.thesmith.org or call the box office at 315-781-5483. Private tours can also be arranged by appointment.

The Smith Center for the Arts, stewards of the historic Smith Opera House, provides diverse arts and educational enrichment opportunities year-round for Finger Lakes residents and visitors. The Smith Opera House is at 82 Seneca St. in Geneva, NY. Box Office hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. For more information, call 315-781-5483 during box office hours or visit www.thesmith.org.