Many famous performers and shows appeared at Pocatello’s Auditorium Theater, including the infamous illusionist Harry Houdini.

Houdini performed at the theater on October 23, 1924. Several advertisements that appeared in The Pocatello Tribune leading up to the performance claim that all questions will be answered and claim that Houdini is “A Magician Among the Spirits.” Ticket prices were $1.50 for the lower floor, $1.00 for the first balcony and $.50 for the second balcony.

Houdini is most well-know for his escapes, but in the 1920s his performances focused on debunking psychics and mediums. He offered a prize to any one who could successfully demonstrate supernatural abilities. No one could claim the prize. He wrote about his experiences in his book, “A Magician Among the Spirits,” which is also the name of the performance that was held in Pocatello.

Houdini died on October 31, 1926, almost two years to the day after his Pocatello performance.

The Auditorium Theater’s location made it a great stop for performers. It was near the railroad, the main source of transportation in early Pocatello, and it was between the major cities of Salt Lake City and Butte  The theater was damaged by fire not once, not twice, but three times. It was first damanged in 1802, and a new building was constructed shortly therafter. Fire again damaged the building in 1899, and the building was rebuilt in 1900.  It had the capacity to seat 850 people.  Fire damaged the building again in 1939, after which the third story was removed and the first two were repaired and renovated. It was never used as an entertainment venue again, but is still standing and is occupied today. The building is located at 237-239 E. Center Street.

There is a book entitled “The history of the Auditorium Theater in Pocatello, Idaho from 1893 to 1939” listed at the Idaho State University Eli M. Oboler Library.

Click here to read “Remembering Pocatello’s Auditorium”

Click here to read about the Center Street Viaduct and the Auditorium’s influence on its construction.

Signatures and messages from many of the performers are marked on the basement walls of the 100+ year-old building:

The Auditorium circa 1906:

Center Street facing west. The theater is on the left. This was taken long before the viaduct that went over the railroad tracks. The Pacific Hotel, one of the first buildings in Pocatello, is seen at the end of the street facing east.