The first picture is the interior of the Rex Theatre in Winnipegosis. It was built in 1914 by Sid Coffey and served first as a concert hall and then became the movie theatre. It was in operation as a theatre until 1967.

Musical concerts, plays, dances, and teas were held here as well as the showing of movies. Teas and dances continued until permanent theatre seating replaced the wooden chairs. Some of the accomplished musicians such as Mrs. Medd provided the musical background for the early silent movies.

In 1914, a Dramatic Society was established and remained active until the 1950’s. As you can see by the second picture some of the plays required elaborate costuming and backdrops.

This was the cast of the play “Princess Chrysanthemum “ in 1941.

Characters were:

Princess Chrysanthemum – Miss H. Smith
To-To – Miss M. Sieffert
Yum-Yum- Mrs E. Thomas
Du-Du – Mrs. F. Needham
Tu-Lip – Mrs. P. Johnson
Fairy Moonbeam – Mrs. Cryderman
Emperor What-For-whi – Mr. H. Ogmundson
Prince Do – Tru- Miss J. McKitrick
Prince-So-Sli – Mr. H. L. Williams
Top-Not – Mr. I. Paulson
Saucer – Eyes Mr. J. H. Denby

There were 22 other supporting cast members.

Winnipegosis was a busy place and entertainment was often based on what you could provide locally. I can imagine the hall was packed for these plays!

In the museum we are fortunate to have on display some of the original posters advertising these plays and concerts!

Read more about Winnipegosis!