Built in 1914, the Belle Mehus Auditorium has stood at the heart of downtown Bismarck for more than a century. Originally called the “Bismarck City Auditorium,” it was renamed in honor of Belle Mehus, a beloved local piano teacher who inspired generations of musicians. Over the years, the venue has hosted everything from vaudeville acts and Broadway tours to graduations, civic meetings, and concerts, making it a true cultural hub for the region.

For Bismarck residents, the auditorium is more than just a building—it’s a living piece of local identity. The Historical Society’s program will give the community an opportunity to revisit memories, discover new details, and learn how preservation efforts continue to keep the venue thriving. The auditorium remains a central gathering place for performances, lectures, and events that connect people across generations.

For Bismarck residents, the auditorium is more than just a building—it’s a living piece of local identity. The Historical Society’s program will give the community an opportunity to revisit memories, discover new details, and learn how preservation efforts continue to keep the venue thriving. The auditorium remains a central gathering place for performances, lectures, and events that connect people across generations.

Bismarck resident David Larson, who attended his high school graduation at the auditorium, shared:
“It’s a place that holds milestones in so many of our lives. I’m glad the history is being preserved and shared with younger audiences.”

The program, scheduled for Thursday evening at the Belle Mehus Auditorium itself, is free and open to the public. Organizers hope the event will spark renewed interest in preserving local history and encourage residents to see the auditorium not only as a performance venue but as a community landmark.