By: Hannah Chatterton - The Forgottonia Times

*Ellisville Opera House Curtain- Spoon River Drive 2007*

The Legacy of a Thespian

Standing proudly in the heart of Ellisville, the Ellisville Opera House has long been a symbol of resilience and artistic spirit since its construction in 1891. Built by members of the local Odd Fellows Lodge, including Paula Helle's great-grandfather, this historic structure has served as a cultural hub for generations. Over the years, it has transformed from a grand venue for social gatherings and performances into a beloved cornerstone of local history, thanks in no small part to the tireless efforts of Paula Helle and the Historic Ellisville Restoration Organization (H.E.R.O.).

A Storied Past

The Ellisville Opera House was born out of the town's prosperity in the late 1800s, a time when Ellisville was a thriving community supported by the local railroad and coal mines. As the town grew, so did the need for a civic center—a place to "see and be seen," as Paula Helle put it. The Opera House quickly became that place, hosting theatrical performances, dances, high school graduations, and organizational meetings.

However, as the railroad ceased operations and the Great Depression forced many residents to seek opportunities elsewhere, the Opera House fell into disuse. By the mid-1930s, it had become a shadow of its former self. Helle recalls memories of a run-down auditorium that was only opened during the Scenic Drive in the 1970s. "It was indeed a spooky place," she said, recounting how a local chapter of Modern Woodmen Insurance used it for a children's Halloween event.

*Original Ellisville Bridge and Sheckler Mill*

Saving History: The Birth of H.E.R.O.

In the late 1980s, a group of passionate locals formed H.E.R.O. (Historic Ellisville Restoration Organization) with the mission of saving the Opera House from demolition. Under the leadership of "Doc" Delano O'Haver and Jess Bradshaw, the group successfully secured a spot for the building on the National Register of Historic Places. This marked a turning point for the Opera House, sparking a renewed interest in restoring its former glory.

Yet, it was Paula Helle's 2003 youth theater production that truly breathed new life into the Opera House. What began as a simple showcase for her piano students—a "one-time only" performance of a condensed "Wizard of Oz"—drew an unexpected crowd of 176 people. "From that single performance evolved the Spoon River Rascals Youth Theatre Troupe," Helle said. "[The Rascals] have been the catalyst for a tremendous amount of improvements at the Opera House," from replacing windows and installing heating and air conditioning to adding a fully functioning kitchen and, to everyone's thankfulness, restrooms.

Building a Hub for the Arts and Community

Under Helle's leadership, the Opera House has become a vibrant community hub. She emphasized the importance of the arts in creating connections among people.

"People can live in proximity to one another and be void of 'community,'" she said. "But when there are civic and arts-related opportunities, strong and vibrant communities grow."

Helle's passion for fostering a sense of belonging has driven her vision for the Opera House. In recent years, she has overseen renovations to make the building more accessible, including the installation of an elevator in 2023—an ambitious project made possible by a generous benefactor and the unwavering support of the community. "This seemed beyond comprehension in such a remote place, … but the community stepped up as never before."

The Spoon River Rascals: Nurturing Young Talent

The Spoon River Rascals have been at the heart of the Opera House's resurgence. Over the past two decades, young performers have brought energy and creativity to the stage, inspiring audiences and developing skills that extend beyond the arts.

"When a kid comes along who is transformed by their experience on stage—the confidence, the skill development, the ability to communicate effectively and make people' feel,' —there's nothing better," Helle said.

Helle has witnessed the Rascals' influence ripple outward as participants bring their theatrical skills and enthusiasm back to their schools and communities. "These kids are 'movers and shakers,'" she said proudly. "They're motivated to make the world a better place."

Facing Challenges with Determination

Restoring and maintaining a historic building like the Opera House is no small task. H.E.R.O. faces constant challenges in terms of funding and labor. "Old buildings require constant upkeep," Helle explained. "We need consistent income and enough people involved to stay on top of maintenance issues."

Yet, the spirit of volunteerism continues to fuel the Opera House's ongoing revitalization. During the pandemic, a group of high school seniors chose to use their production funds to kickstart a renovation project, drawing in more locals to contribute their time, labor, and resources.

"I think we all want to make a positive difference, but are easily convinced we can't. I encourage people to 'dream small,' and watch big things happen!"

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Helle dreams of transforming the first floor of the Opera House into a bustling community space. She envisions an artisan mercantile in the "East Room" and a general store and coffee shop in the "West Room" where locals can gather for coffee, play a game of checkers, and connect with their neighbors. All of this, she hopes, could one day be run by local high schools. "It's not a perfect vision," she admitted. "But the more people who contribute their perspectives– it could be."

Helle's passion for the Opera House is deeply rooted in her connection to Ellisville. "I come from a long line of Helle's who appreciate and know their history," she said proudly. "A desire to honor my ancestors, as well as my wanting my grandchildren to be proud to have their roots here, motivates me to do what I can to make this the best possible place it can be." "I'm also a teacher," she adds, "and seeing kids shine on stage is a joy like no other."

Creating a Legacy

Paula Helle's emphasis on community has taken shape in the most beautiful and tangible ways. Ask any former or current Spoon River Rascal, and they will share countless stories of the friendships, lessons, and unforgettable moments forged within the Opera House's historic walls. They will tell you about Paula—her selfless dedication to creating community, her passion for the arts, and her unwavering commitment to making a difference. She doesn't just talk about change; she lives it. As she says, "'dream small,' and watch big things happen!" And from Helle's own dreaming and the work she has poured into the Opera House and its community, generations of Forgottonians are now bonded together in a unique way.

Through her dedication and vision, Paula Helle has truly left her legacy on the Ellisville Opera House. Through her, it has been transformed into a living, breathing example of how a shared love for history, art, and connection can unite a community. What stands in Ellisville today is not merely a beautiful old building, but a symbol of resilience, creativity, and togetherness—a testament to Helle's belief that when people are "actively being 'community,' that is "humanity in its best form."

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