Abstract:
Entertainment has been an integral part of Greenville since the late nineteenth century. Showboats and tent shows were the first major form of entertainment. This was followed by the age of theaters. In 1883, "Skinner's Opera House" opened, ushering in a new era for Greenville relaxation. In 1898, J.J. Perkins built his own opera house in the fashion of Cherry's Hall and Germania Hall. In October 1909, A.C. Payne later opened his "Pasttime Theater." These early theaters helped to establish Greenville's long-standing entertainment heritage.