About Us

Originally constructed as the Elite Theatre in the early 1900s, this historic venue showcased silent films, with a pianist accompanying the films from the balcony. It was then remodeled and re-opened as the State Theatre, which closed in the 1960s. In 1984, The Lanesboro Arts Council (now Lanesboro Arts) re-opened this charming 126-seat theatre as the St. Mane Theatre, named for Lanesboro’s Post Master, Mr. Charles St. Mane.

Today, the St. Mane Theatre is a vibrant part of the thriving Lanesboro arts community. An annual performing arts series is presented in the auditorium by Lanesboro Arts that includes a wide range of concerts and drama productions. Documentary films are presented as well, including an annual collaboration the the Frozen River Festival each February. The 'Over the Back Fence' Community Variety Show showcases a talented local cast and regional guest musicians while featuring a new theme and different material at each show taking place on the 2nd Friday of the month (March through November).

The upper level of the St. Mane Theatre was completely renovated in 2014 as part of the Lanesboro Arts Campus initiative. The renovations established a new Green Room, as well as an Artist Residency Center featuring a bedroom, private bathroom, and a large open studio space with kitchenette that is also ideal for classes, workshops, and meetings.