Mighty Wurlitzer

Let the Wurlitzer Roar!

On March 2, 1926, the State Theater made its debut. M.L. Finkelstein and I.H. Ruben, who owned nearly 90 theaters throughout the Midwest, ensured that the State Theater was no ordinary establishment. Notably, it was designed to be exceptionally ornate and extravagant, intended to make a significant impact in Sioux Falls—and it certainly did. While the State wasn't the only theater in town, its lavish ornamentation may have contributed to its longevity amidst fierce competition.

The Wurlitzer organ, particularly the renowned "Mighty Wurlitzer" theatre organ, was an enormous pipe organ used in the early days of movie palaces. It provided live music and sound effects for silent films, simulating a full orchestra with distinctive sounds such as horns, percussion (including xylophones, drums, and chimes), and various sound effects (like train whistles and car horns) reminds me of an electric keyboard we had when I was a kiddo that made fun sound effects. These elaborate instruments featured separate consoles and expansive pipe chambers, becoming the iconic voice of silent cinema by delivering cool orchestral sounds and dramatic effects, all played by a single musician. Another neat piece of this history is they would sometimes advertise the name of who would be playing the Mighty Wurlitzer. I would think each person played differently enough that an avid theater goer would have a favorite. 

The Mighty Wurlitzer at the State Theater was the talk of the town when it was installed right before the opening of the theater. After a few decades the times were changing movies had sound now, and the organ started collecting dust and it would go on a little adventure, we will have to come back for that story. Now for the first time since reopening in 2020 the State Theater is having a live score being performed during a silent movie. How cool is that? Happening January 17th and 18th of 2026 as a special part of their 100 year birthday celebration. Imagine stepping into the grand foyer of the State Theater, where the ornate architecture transports you back to a bygone era of elegance and charm. The walls, adorned with intricate moldings and beautifully restored gilded accents. As the lights dim and the screen flickers to life, the Mighty Wurlitzer begins to play, its rich, resonant tones filling the theater. The music perfectly complements the scenes unfolding on the screen, enhancing every emotion and drawing you deeper into the narrative now that is high quality screen time. This weekend's event is not just a movie screening; it's a journey into the past, a celebration of the golden age of cinema, and a rare opportunity to experience the State Theater as it was meant to be enjoyed.