The Woodstock Opera House, built in 1889, originally housed the library, city council, court, and fire department for the city of Woodstock, Illinois. The Opera House sat above on the second floor. The Opera House was the hub of entertainment for McHenry County and the surrounding area. Besides traveling theater groups, it housed the local farmers’ market and wrestling tournaments.
Perhaps the most famous Woodstock native, Orson Welles launched his acting career here. Other famous actors, who trained at the Goodman School in Chicago, performed here as well. They include Paul Newman, Tom Bosley, Betsy Palmer, Shelley Berman and more.
Haunting of the Woodstock Opera House
In the 1940s, Shelley Berman was working on scenery for a production. A loud noise in the seating area startled him. He scanned the room and noticed that several chairs in row DD were in the down position. He ran over to investigate, and when he arrived, all the seats were in their upright position. Berman shared his experience with other cast members, and a haunted legend was born.
Who is this ghost?
In the early 1900s, a young actress dashed up the stairs to the Opera House’s belfry and threw herself from the window to her death. Why? Locals say that the ghost, affectionately named “Elvira,” was a beautiful young woman who was passed over for a lead part in a ballet. She couldn’t handle the rejection and plunged to her death. Refusing to be forgotten, she supposedly haunts the theater, critiquing performances from her favorite seat, DD113.
The Woodstock Opera House Today
Legend says a ghost haunts the Woodstock Opera House, but local experts downplay her existence. They attribute the seat’s strange action to overuse — basically, those hinges got old and don’t work the way they should all the time. Other supposed incidents, such as moaning and sighs during poor performances, are attributed to drafty windows and creaky floors — all common in old buildings.
Local leaders prefer to focus on the Victorian charm of this great theater, its rich history and its prominent role in the community. They are proud of its 100+ years of continuous use, closed only once in the 1970s for some much needed renovations. They boast of its unique construction, composed of stone unique to the area and embellished with rich Victorian detail. The Woodstock Opera House is an integral piece of this community, still providing excellent entertainment for the pleasure of the entire region.
Harper Neilson says
I grew up in Woodstock with knowledge of Elvira since I was just a little kid performing on the Woodstock Opera House stage. She is very real! Even now as an adult, I love the story of Elvira and her presence at the Opera House. Now, I am a professional photographer and will be shooting a wedding in September at the Opera House for someone who also grew up on the Opera House stage….we shall see if Elvira pays us a visit~
OneMommy says
I believe there are things we can’t necessarily explain — and if a place is going to be haunted, an opera house is a good place!
Rosey says
I don’t think of myself as overly superstitious, but if a place is declared haunted, proven or not, I steer clear. 😉 That being said, old buildings really do creak and groan. 😉
Rebel Sweetheart says
Ugh. Reading about the story gave me the creeps. 😀
Rhonda says
I can’t vote from my phone, but I say not haunted. If that place is haunted then so is my creaky old house!
Lexie Lane says
I’m not sure if I absolutely believe in ghosts even though I think I may have encountered one, but this sounds really spooky. I’ve heard of Elvira but never this story. Ooooh!!!!
Karen Dawkins says
I don’t believe in ghosts either, but it sure is fun to think about such things — especially in the theater. It’s just such a natural fit for haunted tales. 🙂
Pamela R says
I believe it’s hunted!!!!!
Karen Dawkins says
Thanks, Pamela!
Real Army of Moms says
I love old architecture. This is such a great old building. I am so glad to see that it has been lovingly maintained.
Karen Dawkins says
The community definitely appreciates this building. It’s even more beautiful in person.
Cococute says
Never been to an Opera House but if given a chance even if it’s haunted I won’t care as long as the art pieces and history are making me feel as an artist.
Karen Dawkins says
I like that! What’s the point, to appreciate art. 🙂
Sofia says
I’ll go with the existence of Elvira!! It is a way better story than a creaking old house! Besides, actors are temperamental!
Karen Dawkins says
Excellent points! 🙂
Karen Dawkins says
Michele, REALLY? Where? I will opt NOT to stay there. 🙂
Michele says
Until it is proved differently-I believe!!! I stayed in a house at one time that was definitely haunted–front door s do not open and close by themselves–I saw the knob turning and NO ONE was on the outside–I checked!!!