Highland Theaters
COLUMBIA OPERA HOUSE/LORY THEATER AND AIRDOME
The Lory Theater is located at 810 Main Street in Highland. The
theater originally opened in 1912 as the Columbia Opera House, where
moving pictures and vaudeville were its primary attractions. It was
built by Highland businessman Adolph P. Mosimann, who already owned
most of the block, including the Columbia Hotel.
The
theater's balcony had sliding partitions to close it off from the
theater, so the front of the building could be used for dances. The
projection equipment was in a cage outside the building, so its
beams may be directed into the theater or upon the curtain of the
Airdome next door.
In 1916, Henry Lory bought the Columbia Hotel, Airdome, and Opera
House for $20,000. Lory managed the opera house until his death in
1932, when his youngest son, Herbert, took over as manager.
In 1935 the opera house closed for two months for renovations that
would
bring the theater up to modern standards. The building was
lengthened and most of the stage removed, since live theater would
no longer perform there. The front of the building was rebuilt in
the Art Deco style. The theater was renamed The Lory Theater, in
memory of Henry Lory.
In 1939, Kerosotes Theaters leased the building and in 1947
purchased it. Kerosote closed off the balcony and put another screen
on the second floor. They operated the business until 2011, when
they were bought by AMC. Later, the McLaughlins purchased the
theater and renovated the building. It is still open today.
COLUMBIA OPERA HOUSE EXHIBITION
Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, February 18, 1914
A sparring match will be held at the Columbia Opera House, Wednesday
evening, February 18, in addition to a large moving picture show. It
will be between W. O. McLaughlin of Highland and M. M. Corbett of
Edwardsville, says the Highland Leader. A four-round bout for points
only, no hitting in the clinches. Marquis of Queensbury rules to
govern. This exhibition will be given for the purpose only of
organizing what will be known as the Highland Athletic Club, which
will be a fine thing for Highland citizens and vicinity. The
training will include all the latest scientific methods used in
regular professional training quarters, including boxing,
catch-as-catch-can, wrestling, etc. The admission to the show will
be same as regular prices - 5 and 10 cents, as no extra charge will
be made for boxing exhibition.