Historically Speaking
by Renee Leininger

The Kallet Theater

The Kallet was originally built on Madison Street in 1912 and called the Madison Theater.  It was the principal playhouse for the City of Oneida for years, presenting live stage productions by traveling companies, vaudeville, silent movies and the first "talkies."

In 1937 Myron Kallet built the "Ultra Modern" Kallet Theater on Main Street and it became Central New York's "showcase" for screen entertainment.  The Kallet closed in the mid to late 1960's and the building was left vacant for several years.  It was then reopened in the 1970's as a roller skating rink only to again have the doors closed in 1981.

In 1983 a task force was put together to help reopen the once beautiful Kallet movie theater as a Civic Center.  Ran by volunteers, the building was transformed back to its original beauty.  Through the generosity of the community they were able to replace the side curtains, install new carpeting in the foyer and refinish the 6,000 square foot hardwood floor, which is truly the focal point of the building.  Please help us in our goal to become self-sustaining by attending our functions, telling your friends about us and hosting your next event at the Greater Oneida Kallet Civic Center.

Courtesy of
Kallet Civic Center
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