Sketch of Mabel Tainter Memorial by architect Harvey Ellis

As a former student of UW-Stout and a resident of Menomonie for more than four years, you have to trust me when I say that the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts is brilliant.  It’s historical, beautiful, non-profit, located right downtown … I don’t know what else I can say to sell you on this building. That’s why it’s a shame that the majority of my classmates, as well as most residents of Menomonie and Eau Claire, don’t know much about the theater and all it has to offer.

If you’re a history nut like me, you’ll love the story behind this building. Built in 1889 by Captain and Mrs. Andrew Tainter, it serves as a memorial for their daughter, Mabel, who died in 1886 at the tragic age of nineteen.  It still stands today, in all its Victorian-era splendor, serving its community as a completely functional theater with year-round cultural and musical performances.

 

THe non-building
Mabel Tainter

The theater’s new director, Amy Reise, is striving to make it more attractive and accessible to national artists, as well as members of the community.  So far, she seems to be doing a great job, heading the theater in a very positive direction. 

I encourage you to visit this lovely building, whether it’s for a short self-guided tour or to attend one of their breathtaking shows. 

Like I said, you have to trust me.  I almost always know what I’m talking about.