The Capitol Theatre

The building where the “Capitol Theatre” once stood was built in 1901.  Soon after, “The Fraternity Theatre” opened on the second floor and featured stage shows and vaudeville acts as the main entertainment.  Patrons could enjoy performances by some of the country’s leading artists and players.  The playhouse was managed by W. D. Nields.

Capitol Theatre and Tharp’s Ice Cream Parlor on Independence St.
Capitol Theatre Downtown Shamokin Independence Street

In 1908 a drop curtain was added to show the melodramatic, over-exaggerated motion films that were the beginnings of the motion-picture industry.   The theatre was renamed “The Family Theatre” and was managed by R. Leitzel.  Casper Tharp and his son Chester purchased the building in 1925 and remodeled it into the “Capitol Theatre”.  The new owners began their project by renovating the lower floor which, had previously been a storeroom occupied by the Moser Department Store.  The Capitol Theatre served the community for many years but eventually closed and was demolished.     

A Minstrel Show, complete with Black Face performers, given in November 1941 at the Capitol Theater in Shamokin PA. The group on stage includes two young women holding American flags, a Priest and six men in black face.