The Historic Masonic Theatre is an architectural treasure. Designed by the Lynchburg firm of Frye and Chesterman, and commissioned by Low Moor Masonic Lodge 166, the Theatre opened in September 1906. A three-story Beaux Arts brick building, with additional underground level, a pilastered facade, cove ceiling lobby and original performance hall with stage, enriched proscenium and balcony, the historic theatre has been transformed into a performing arts, entertainment, education, and community facility.Once known as The Mason Hall and Opera House, the building was constructed in 1905 and throughout its history hosted political speakers, William Jennings Bryan in 1908, western movie icons like Lash LaRue, Tex Ritter who performed on stage with his horse, White Fang, and Cowboy Bob Steele. Masonic Lodge 166 conducted its meetings in the third-floor ballroom. In addition to meetings and shows, the Theatre hosted silent movies; and later, talkies, vaudeville, newsreels, classic movies and film and stage stars.
Other stars made the Masonic Theatre a part of their performance legacy. Performers included Gene Autry, Hopalong Cassidy, as well as legends Burl Ives, the Drifters, and the world-famous Count Basie Orchestra.
Through its long history, the Theatre has had a succession of owners; Sam Sachs in 1908, Shenandoah Valley Theatre Company in 1926 to 1966, Warner Brothers, Irwin Cohen, who bought the Theatre in 1968 and who renamed the Theatre the Stonewall Theatre and hired Mrs. Roy Anderson as manager, Appalfolks of America in 1991. The Town of Clifton Forge took ownership in 2003, with Appalfolks continuing to offer performances to the community.
The Masonic Theatre Preservation Foundation was formed in 2009 and its main goal was to preserve and protect this valuable community asset. Years of fund-raising ensued and in April 2015, reconstruction began on the Historic Masonic Theatre with all funding in place and historically accurate architectural drawings focused on restoring the original elements and beauty of the 1905 Theatre.
The 6.7-million-dollar renovation has rehabilitated all four floors of the Theatre, the third-floor ballroom warming kitchen and studios, the balcony level with offices and conference room, the auditorium with stage and lobby, and the lower level dressing rooms, concessions and underground lounge that looks out onto Smith Creek
The renovation has been completed, now the real task begins—the operation of a community asset that offers so much to all residents of the Alleghany Highlands. The Theatre stands as a testament to the vision of earlier citizens of the area who sought to foster educational and entertainment opportunities as well as community fellowship. The Historic Masonic Theatre holds a special place in the hearts and minds of a supportive community and it looks to the community to keep it strong and vital for years to come.