The Historic Opera House

The Hawkinsville Opera House was built in 1907 by W.R. Gunn at a cost of $16,470 with the best acoustics and seating arrangements of the period. Many entertainers performed at this venue including vaudeville comedian Oliver Hardy, humorist Lewis Grizzard, along with the Ocmulgee Symphony Orchestra. The Opera House was home to Hawkinsville's City Hall up until 1954. In 1973, this location was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and saved from demolition in 1977. In 2001, paid for by SPLOST funds supported by the community, a restoration was made to the building totaling $1.7 million. The Opera House continues to be used for events including cultural events and performances, graduation ceremonies, meetings, plays, and concerts as well as housing the office of the Hawkinsville Pulaski Arts Council. The Opera House is open daily and offers tours for anyone interested.