It’s spooky season! Join us in exploring eerie historic places and horror stories in our blog series, Haunted Florida! Today, we begin our journey with a visit at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater.
Dinner and a show? You may get more than you bargain for when you visit Clearwater’s Capitol Theatre.
History
Built in 1921, the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre was a popular vaudeville theater and movie house. Senator John S. Taylor, in conjunction with John & Ivan Phillipoff, built the theater and selected architect Lester Avery to design the Mediterranean Revival building.
At the time it was known for having the best acoustics in the southeast. Nowadays, some say that when you visit the theatre, you may hear more than the usual sounds — like chattering from the other side.
Ghostly Encounters
Folks say strange orbs will appear in their photos. Others hear whispers or feel a spectral presence. There have primarily been sightings of three distinguishable ghosts — an old sea captain, a little girl and a former theatre manager, Bill Neville.
Although not much is known about the first two spirits, but the malicious and untimely death of Mr. Neville is documented. Neville’s body was found strewn on the theatre’s balcony after two men robbed and brutally beat him to death. Some claim it was a gay-bashing, others say it was coincidental, but many agree that his spirit lingers among the space, a place beloved by Neville.
The little girl is described as a playful spirit, and some report they hear her bubbly laughter. The sea captain, however, is reported to be blithely mischievous, moving objects and touching people. Otherworldly experiences don’t end there: sightings of Jesus have been reported at this very theatre.
Have fun!
Whether you visit Bilheimer Capitol Theatre for its history, a show or the paranormal, we think you’ll have a great time. It seems even the ghosts are having a blast, as theatregoers have reported the chandelier inexplicably swinging back and forth. We think it’s the captain.
