The many tradespeople working on downtown Duluth’s NorShor Theatre have recognized numerous signs of the past since they began restoring the 107-year-old facility in June 2016. They haven’t, however, identified a dusty, 8 x 10-foot mural they recently found that had been hidden since at least 1941.
When the 1910 Orpheum was renovated to become the NorShor Theatre, which opened in 1941, the mural remained hanging above a newly-constructed ceiling.
“Someone painted this beautiful mural on canvas, but we don’t know who or when or why. So we’re hoping the public can help solve this mystery,” said Christine Gradl Seitz, executive and artistic director of the Duluth Playhouse, which will operate the theater when it opens. “We’re going to restore and display this mural in the new NorShor as another part of the building’s preservation. If anyone knows the story behind this intriguing piece of Duluth’s history, please call the Duluth Playhouse.”
Gradl Seitz said more than 60 percent of the construction has been completed, which is on schedule.
“It’s hard to believe after several delays in getting started, but opening night at the new NorShor Theatre is only 245 days away,” added Gradl Seitz. “We’re bringing the NorShor back to life with a bang on February 1 with ‘Mamma Mia.’ People are already buying tickets to be there for the start of another 100 years of great entertainment in downtown Duluth.”