We envision Stuart’s Opera House as the cultural anchor and a center of expression on Nelsonville’s bustling and dynamic Public Square. It is a historic venue sought out by people of all ages, from all walks of life, and from near and far. Its well-earned reputation as an intimate, casual setting for continuous offerings of both familiar and innovative artistic performances and community events brings people back time and again.

Stuart’s Opera House is the cornerstone of the Nelsonville Historic Art District. A lovingly restored theatre that reflects its glory days in 1879 through 1924 when it was home to vaudeville, melodrama, and minstrel shows. Stuart’s closed and sat empty from 1924 through 1976. In 1977 a group formed a non-profit and started bringing the theatre back to life when a devastating fire nearly destroyed the building in 1980. Seventeen years later, in 1997, the opera house re-opened its doors and is once again home to local, regional, national, and internationally acclaimed performances. Stuart’s Opera House now hosts over 75 events each year and is Southeastern Ohio’s favorite place to experience live performance. Please join us!