Masonic Theatre | New Bern

The Masonic Theatre in New Bern, North Carolina, is one of the oldest functioning theatre spaces in the state and a treasured architectural and cultural landmark. Tucked within the historic Masonic Temple at 516 Hancock Street, this structure has witnessed over two centuries of evolving civic life in New Bern—a town that once served as North Carolina’s colonial capital and remains a hub of historical significance.

Historical Background and Construction

Construction of the building began in 1801, under the direction of St. John’s Lodge No. 3, which is the oldest Masonic lodge in North Carolina, chartered in 1755. The cornerstone was ceremonially laid with Masonic rites, reflecting both the spiritual and civic prominence of Freemasonry at the time. By 1809, the building was completed, constructed in a Federal architectural style—marked by clean lines, symmetry, and refined brickwork.

This building was designed to serve dual purposes:

Theatre on the Ground Floor: The first floor was intended for public use, especially performances and lectures.

Masonic Lodge on the Upper Floor: The second floor was and still is home to St. John’s Lodge No. 3, with a room decorated in a classical Masonic style.

From the outset, the theatre became a vital venue for public entertainment, political discourse, and cultural enrichment in New Bern. The building’s multifunctional nature symbolized the democratic blending of the arts, community, and fraternity.

Architecture and Interior Design

The Masonic Temple is a two-story brick building with an elevated basement, constructed with the simplicity and symmetry typical of Federal-style buildings. Although it has undergone modifications over the years—including remodels in 1847, 1904, and 1917—it retains its essential early 19th-century character.

Of particular note is the Masonic lodge room, which features:

Mid-19th-century frescoes painted directly on the plaster walls and ceilings.

Classical Masonic symbols such as the square and compass, pillars, all-seeing eye, and representations of King Solomon’s Temple.

An atmosphere of reverence and historical depth that has earned it a reputation as one of the top 10 Masonic lodge rooms in the world.

These artistic and symbolic elements make the building not just a theatre, but a repository of esoteric and aesthetic heritage.

Civil War Use and Preservation

During the American Civil War, following the Battle of New Bern in 1862, the building was seized by Union forces. It was repurposed as a military hospital, and the Masonic lodge room, with its elevated ceilings and airy layout, was used as an operating room. Remarkably, the frescoes survived this period of use and remained largely intact.

This Civil War history adds a layer of solemnity to the theatre and lodge. The fact that both sacred and secular functions continued within the same structure gives the building a rare historical duality.

Theatre History and Evolution

The ground floor theatre has hosted a variety of performances since its inception. In the 19th century, it featured:

Traveling minstrel shows

Classical plays

Lectures and political speeches

Choral performances and concerts

In the early 20th century, especially after a major interior remodel in 1917, the space was converted into a motion picture house. Renamed the Union Theatre, it screened silent films and eventually “talkies,” becoming New Bern’s go-to cinema for much of the century.

The theatre operated continuously through various names and ownerships until it closed in 1974, making it one of the oldest operating theatres in the United States at the time of its closure.

Revival and Modern Role

After decades of dormancy, the theatre was revived in the early 2000s, thanks to local preservation efforts. The RiverTowne Players, a New Bern-based community theatre group, took over the space and began producing plays, musicals, and seasonal performances. Their ongoing residency in the theatre has restored it to public life and ensured that the space remains both relevant and vibrant.

Today, the Masonic Theatre is fully functional, though it retains its antique charm. Features include:

A classic proscenium stage

Updated sound and lighting systems

An intimate auditorium ideal for dramatic and musical performances

Preserved historical ambiance with exposed brickwork and traditional moulding

Performances range from Broadway-style musicals and Shakespearean plays to original productions, children’s theatre, and holiday revues. The theatre also participates in citywide events, including art walks and heritage festivals.

Cultural and Educational Impact

The Masonic Theatre today is much more than an entertainment venue. It serves the New Bern community as:

A hub of local arts education, often hosting theatre workshops for children and youth.

A heritage landmark, included on historical walking tours and cherished by historians and Freemasons alike.

A community anchor, providing an affordable and accessible space for gatherings, fundraisers, and civic ceremonies.

Its continued use reflects a deep respect for tradition balanced with modern community needs.

Conclusion

The Masonic Theatre in New Bern stands as a living monument to American cultural and civic life from the early 19th century to the present day. With origins rooted in Masonic ideals, a history shaped by war, and a future secured by community dedication, it remains a vital part of New Bern’s identity. The building encapsulates the endurance of tradition, the adaptability of space, and the timeless need for shared stories and performance.