BROOKLYN — This week, the Brooklyn Opera House is celebrating the five-year anniversary of coming under new ownership and beginning its renovation, a milestone that has brought a wide range of entertainment to Brooklyn. This celebration also respectfully acknowledges 20 years since the passing of Michael J. Manatt, whose vision was instrumental in both the opera house’s transformation and the establishment of the adjacent Michael J. Manatt Community Center.

Once a crumbling building, the opera house underwent an ambitious renovation, transforming it into a 225-seat multi-purpose facility. The Manatt family acquired the property in July 2020, and by October of that same year, the space hosted its very first show. The Brooklyn Opera House celebrated its grand opening in 2021, and since then, it has become a cornerstone of the community, offering a diverse array of events, from musical performances and local plays to movies and community gatherings. Its success, often in conjunction with the Michael J. Manatt Community Center, has brought renewed vibrancy to downtown Brooklyn, spurring community growth and encouraging local engagement.

The opera house’s revival, much like the community center, is a testament to what a community can achieve when it unites behind a shared vision. Manatt was a passionate advocate for bringing people together and creating a place with “pizzazz” for Brooklyn. His enduring spirit of community continues to inspire the success of both venues.

“It’s incredible to think it’s been five years since we reopened our doors,” said Brooklyn Opera House General Manager, Laura Manatt. “The Brooklyn Opera House has truly become a central gathering place, and we’re so proud of how our community has embraced it. We’re honored to carry forward the spirit of community and the opportunities for entertainment and gathering that individuals like Michael J. Manatt envisioned for Brooklyn, working hand-in-hand with the Michael J. Manatt Community Center to make it happen.”

The project was made possible through strong community support and state and national grants, reflecting Brooklyn’s commitment to its heritage and future. The Brooklyn Opera House continues to be a beacon of community and connection for rural Iowa, built on a foundation of collective effort and shared ambitions.