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Waverly Opera House

324 Broad Street
607-565-8714

About us:
In the year 2000, entrepreneur and artist Ron Nogar purchased one of Waverly's historic buildings, the former Yanuzzi's Clothing Store, which had lain dormant since its closing. He then painstakingly set out to do what he had done many times before. The final product of Ron's passion resulted in yet another piece of architecture restored to the beauty of the days from which it was born. A work of art in itself.

The building is as eclectic as Nogar himself. With his artist's eye for design and his practical knowledge of the era, he created a space unlike any in Waverly, yet reminiscent of the village's past. It was a labor of love. He restored the original tin ceiling in the theatre side, built a stage, a balcony and used seating from three different dismantled theatres to provide space for an audience of just under 60. There are no "bad" seats in the Opera House. He added lights, a sound system, dvd projector and air conditioning to complete the room; it can be used for everything from concerts to lectures to movies to musicals.

The other side of the building is part soda fountain and part library. The design of the room is part art deco and part Victorian reading room. It's a place to relax and talk.

The upper floors of the two joined buildings are being developed and will contain rehearsal space, an art gallery and studio, offices, living space and more.

In early 2005 a group of dedicated individuals came together to help support the Opera House. They incorporated as Waverly Opera House, Ltd., a non-profit corporation in the state of New York.