“The Goss Opera House has been in the heart of downtown Watertown since 1889,” said executive director Jamie Mack.
Since its inception, the facility has been operated by various entities—but in 2018, the opera house abruptly closed.
“The community rallied around it and raised over $20,000 in a matter of 24 hours,” explained Mack. “The nonprofit Friends of the Goss began its capital campaign and raised five million dollars to renovate the facility.”
The restored opera house is broken down into three categories, shares Mack.
“We’re a beautiful event facility, an entertainment venue, and we offer cultural and educational programming for people of all ages,” said Mack.
The event spaces blend historic charm with contemporary elegance, creating a unique venue for weddings, corporate events, concerts, and their Dinner & a Movie nights.
Learn more about the executive director, from her favorite parts of the job to her guilty pleasures.
1. How did you end up in your current position?
I’ve always been passionate about the music and theater community and hosting events. When a position became available at The Goss, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it.
2. Where are your favorite places in Watertown?
I adore our downtown. It hosts local shops all run by people who genuinely care about our community. You can stop in Gather for a delicious coffee, then stroll down the street and stop in the boutiques. In the summer you can eat lunch in our new Foundation Plaza complete with a stage, splash pad, and playground. I also usually end up at Dempsey’s Brewery Restaurant & Pub at least once a week.
3. What’s one of your guilty pleasures & why?
I have several guilty pleasures: all kinds of music, Irish bar songs, musicals, and especially cheesy ‘80s rock. I also love a nice glass of red wine with a grilled steak—and finally—the Rocky movie franchise.
Did You Know?
Attached to The Goss Opera House is Maud’s Mercantile, carrying a various array of goods, wondrous curiosities, and art from local artists.
4. What’s something you want people to know about The Goss Opera House?
Our main focus at The Goss is to encourage people to engage with the arts. We rely heavily on community support to provide things like exhibit opportunities for Lake Area Technical College photography students, educational programs such as Learning and Libations for adults, and our annual “Beads on One String” event. “Beads on One String” invites all second-grade-age children to an event based on music and art, and is dedicated to connectedness and bullying prevention.
5. What’s something you’re passionate about?
I strongly believe in cherishing your community. Watertown is a great place to live, and helping to enhance the area is a priority for me.
