The OHS auditorium is one of the last things standing from when Owatonna High School was built about a 100 years ago. And for many it’s the first thing you see walking into the school. Over the years there have been many renovations as well as performances, concerts, and lectures have been given in this auditorium.

Erik Eitrhiem, theater and English teacher at OHS, has been maintaining the auditorium for the past 23 years. 

Mr. Eitrheim said, “I have done about 67 shows. We lost a few to the pandemic.” 

Not including any concerts over 67 shows and countless elementary and middle school concerts have all been held in the OHS auditorium. 

With the new high school Mr.Eitrheim is extremely excited. Mr. Eitrheim said, “Like everything, new is going to be really exciting. I think we have designed and built a really great space.” 

The auditorium has held a place in many people’s hearts from band concerts to life-changing lectures. It truly has been the heart of the school. With the new auditorium coming in Mr. Eitrheim is quite excited for all the new technology and special add-ons that the old school has never had.  

Mr. Eitrheim said, “I am anxious to get inside there and start playing around with the auditorium.”  

Besides Mr. Eitrheim, there are many others looking forward to the new auditorium.

Other faculty are also excited about the new technology added. This will make it easier for the drama department, band, and others to put on showcases. 

Hall monitor Mr. Brandon Noble said, “I am excited for smart lights that are controlled with computers and don’t have to physically go up and change the color.”

With the addition of the new auditorium the OHS is truly excited, yet it will be hard to let go with the old auditorium. Each auditorium and space have little antics that have to be uncovered as time has gone on. Along with

learning how to deal with the new ones as well. But this space truly has been a home to many.

Freshman Boldin Krause said, “I am sad to see the space go, but I am excited to be in the new auditorium. Even though I have only been here for a year I really enjoyed performing in this space, especially for Shrek the Musical.”

Just like Krause, Mr .Noble has grown with the space when he was in high school and now still as he works at OHS.

Mr. Noble said, “The auditorium has always been a safe place for me, and working here as an employee I look forward to making it a safe place for the students.” And the new auditorium will be the new home of many. 

The auditorium here has an encore for OHS arts and activities. With the new auditorium, it will be a new safe space for many. Not only making a new home to many, but a fresh start to the OHS arts program.