1) What is the history of the Shepherdstown Opera House?
The Opera House was built in 1909 by U.S. Martin, who served as Shepherdstown's mayor. Within that same year, it was sold to the Musser family who installed one of the earliest motion picture projectors. The Opera House ran nightly, often showing as many as three different films each week. In 1928 the Opera House became the first motion picture theatre in West Virginia with sound, enabling it to show the newfangled "talkies."

The Mussers closed the Opera House in 1956, and it sat dark and silent until it was purchased by Pam and Rusty Berry. After an extensive renovation following the Department of the Interior guidelines for the restoration of historic structures, the Berrys reopened the Opera House in February of 1992 and began showing American independent and foreign films. In 2004 they added new lighting and sound systems to accommodate live musical and theatrical performances onstage.

2) How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets for movies may be purchased at our theatre box office; tickets for live performances may be purchased at our theatre box office or online through our website. We do not sell tickets via telephone. Our box office is open from 5 pm until 9 pm on show days or at least one hour before any scheduled event. 

Tickets for live performances are also available at the Shepherdstown Sweet Shop Bakery at 100 W German Street (one block west of the theatre) between 10 am and 5 pm daily.  Movie and Concession Gift Certificates are also available at the bakery.

Tickets purchased online include a service charge imposed by our ticketing service provider.

3) Is there reserved seating?
Seating is on a first come, first seated basis. We suggest you arrive a little early to get your favorite seat.

4) When do the doors open?
The box office opens at 6:00 on live show days. Seating and concession sales begin one hour before scheduled show time.  For movies, the lobby generally opens one hour before the first posted show time.  

5) Are there any age restrictions?
The Opera House is open to people of all ages. However you must have a valid picture ID proving your age to be 21 or older to purchase beer or wine.  

6) How do I get to the Opera House?
Practice, practice, practice. No wait, that's Carnegie Hall! Check the Directions button on the navigation bar.

7) Where do I park?
All parking is on nearby streets. While Shepherdstown parking is notoriously difficult during the day because of college students, parking is readily available at night.  Metered parking is free after 6 pm on weekdays and free all day on Saturday and Sunday.

8) Are there any special rules?
Since by definition the audience is there to hear the performers, we ask the audience to remain appropriately quiet during a performance. And please - no cell phones.

9) Is there a dress code?
No tank tops for men, and hats are usually a bad idea.  The usual caveat; management reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone whose dress is inappropriate for the venue.

10) Is smoking allowed?
By West Virginia law, smoking is illegal anywhere within the building, including the rest rooms.

11) How do I find out about upcoming performances?
Join our e-mail list.  There is no obligation and you may unsubscribe at any time.  We do not share our mail lists.

12) Where can I dine or stay the night?
Check our web pages for Nearby Restaurants and Nearby Accommodations.  

13) Is the Opera House available for private functions?
The Opera House is available for rental. Rates vary regarding dates, use, and special needs. For more information, e-mail Rusty at info@operahouselive.com to schedule an appointment.