Dakota Datebook

The Bismarck Auditorium

January 19, 2024 — The Bismarck Auditorium, today known as the Belle Mehus, has been around since the early part of the 20th century when it was built by local architect Arthur Van Horn. Local newspapers reported on the progress of construction of the building, which was to be a prize gem in the community.

Finally, in 1914, it was done. Last minute touches were being put into place as opening night, January 19, was just two days away. No stone was left unturned; even the seats were tested to make sure they would support enough weight.

On opening night, January 19, 1914, the New Amsterdam Theatre Company of New York City came to town to present Robin Hood, a popular comic opera of the time with wellknown stars like soprano Bessie Abott, who once was a regular at the Metropolitan Opera. Ticket prices for the box seats went as high as $18 a piece —a pretty price back then. The play was a hit, but the building, with its remarkable acoustics, was the greatest success.

After it opened, Mrs. W. F. Cushing, wife of the Bismarck Tribune editor, reviewed the new addition to the city, writing that “It was a brilliant assemblage, one of which Bismarck, Queen of the Slope, has every reason to feel proud.” The Bismarck Weekly Tribune later reported that this theater, the two large hospitals, schools, businesses and hotels pointed towards Bismarck’s progressiveness.

The Bismarck Auditorium was used regularly after that, playing host to many local and famous concerts and convocations. The stage saw performances by various stars over the years, such as Al Jolson, Dorothy Stickney and Ethel Barrymore. Will Rogers told stories on that stage; Beverly Sills and Marion Anderson sang there; famed ballerinas Anna Pavlova and Dame Alicia Markova danced there. It was used in a political arena as well, with Woodrow Wilson,

JFK, Hubert Humphrey and Eugene McCarthy all appearing.

“Dakota Datebook” is a radio series from Prairie Public in partnership with the State Historical Society of North Dakota and with funding from Humanities North Dakota. See all the Dakota Datebooks at prairiepublic.org, subscribe to the “Dakota Datebook” podcast, or buy the Dakota Datebook book at shopprairiepublic.org.