Draper Historic Theatre

The Draper was built in 1938 by the Howell family and originally named the Pearl after the matriarch of the family and a daughter-in-law. The theater was a family operation and also featured a doctor’s office in the front section of the building.

In the early days, some live entertainment took place on a small stage. A bag of groceries was given away every Friday night. The theatre was a happening place in this (formerly) small rural community.

The theater passed through several hands and was damaged by an arson’s fire in the early 50’s.

Educators Charles and Vanessa Nelson purchased the theater in the late 1980’s and later converted the stage to accomodate live performances.

Draper Historic Theatre (DHT) is now operated by a non-profit board created to carry on the vision of Charles and Vanessa – to produce high quality, family oriented musicals and plays, and to nurture the individual in the process.

In early 2002, Draper Theatre could no longer endure the competition from newly built "megaplexes" and ceased showing films.

Phase One of the theatre’s rehabilitation is now underway – roof replacement and seismic reinforcement. A large fund-raising effort is now being launched to accomplish full renovation and the construction of dressing/rehearsal facilities for cast members.

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