Knott’s Berry Farm
KNOTT’S BERRY FARM - HISTORY OF THE CALICO SALOON
Knott’s Berry Farm is one of the premier attractions in Southern California. Two of Knott’s unique attractions are the Bird Cage Theater and the Calico Saloon
The Bird Cage Theater is the longest running Melodrama playhouse in the country. For those of you unfamiliar with the American melodrama style, picture the evil villain with a curled moustache dressed in a black cape as he ties a beautiful girl to the railroad tracks!
This style of theater was very active in the 20’s and one of the most popular forms of entertainment in those times. A pianist accompanies all the action and stage movement with mostly improvised music cues and dramatic sequences.
The Calico Saloon is set in the Wild West of the Late 1800’s. It’s not uncommon for a gunfight or two from the street players to interrupt the show unexpectedly. These shows are still running at Knott’s Berry Farm. The Saloon is located just off the center stage, stop in next time you’re at Knott’s Berry Farm!
Many performers received their acting training from the Bird Cage Theater, among them comedian Steve Martin
Pianist Conrad Askland (left photo) performed at Knott’s Berry Farm in both the Calico Saloon and the Bird Cage Theater from 1994-1996.
February 10th, 2008 at 3:07 am
Katherine “Kay” Shaw founded The Bird Cage Theater in the mid 1950’s.
She actually approached Walter Knott and convinced him that her theater would be a tremendous success, and that his park would benefit greatly because of it. Mr. Knott adored Kay and gave her whatever she needed for the Theater..
She is my mother-in-law,and she is alive & well and living in San Juan Capistrano. She has been selected to be the Grand Marshall of the 2008 Swallows Day Parade.