Formerly known as _The Topeka Opera House_, but, to avoid a conflict of titles, name changed to that of GRAND OPERA HOUSE.
The house was built by a stock company; 300 residents financially interested; cost $60,000; capacity 1,500; stage is 60 × 67 feet; the proscenium opening is 35 × 38 feet; eight large dressing rooms; full complement of scenery; only ground floor Opera House in the city; can be emptied in _one minute and a half_; absolute safety guaranteed to the patrons of the Grand; Topeka is the capital of the State, and the principal city, commercially and politically; constantly thronged with strangers; resident population about 27,000. Messrs. Wood & Updegraff are the local managers, but all communications should be addressed to Mr. Craig, at St. Joseph, Mo.
This elegant theater, rapidly approaching completion, is being erected under the provisions of a will which requires _that the net earnings of the house shall be applied to the maintenance of a permanent home for destitute children_, and will be opened early in September, 1883. When completed, the Gillis Opera House will have cost $100,000. It is centrally located, being within four blocks of twelve hotels. Nearly every street-car line in the city passes its doors, either on Fifth or Walnut streets. It is therefore evident that the Gillis has a decided advantage of location for the resident as well as the transient population. All appointments of auditorium first-class; means of exit ample--three entrances on ground floor, and two spacious staircases, each 20 ft. wide. The stage of the Gillis is one of the largest in the country, 42 × 124 ft.; height of scenery 28 ft.; height above scenery 32 ft.; proscenium opening 37 × 46 ft.; seventeen dressing rooms, green room, reception room and music room. _First-class_ attractions can safely book a week at the Gillis, and none other need apply; 109 nights already booked. Population upwards of 100,000.
SPIES & SMART, 12 Union Square, N.Y., are my accredited agents, and at all times the open time at the Gillis, Tootle's, and the Grand can be found on file at their office. I shall be there until June 20.
The average distance between these three cities is only 69 miles. Omaha, Denver and St. Louis are the other principal cities in this section. For rates address: