Searching for spirits in Lake Worth Beach

Lake Worth Playhouse celebrates centennial, fights off ghosts of its Roaring ’20s founders.

This week marks the 100th anniversary of the Lake Worth Playhouse.

Why it matters: On Nov. 3, 1924, brothers Lucien and Clarence Oakley launched the Art Deco landmark on Lake Avenue as the Oakley Theater.

• In addition to being the oldest working theater in Palm Beach County, the playhouse is the home to alleged paranormal players. 

Flashback: Reports of ghost sightings date to the 1930s, Helen Greene, the former Lake Worth Historical Museum curator, told writer Joe Capozzi.

• “There were people who said they heard voices and said the organ played without anyone at the organ. They really believed it,’’ she said.

Over the years, reports of “considerable energy upstairs,’’ a black handprint on a newly paneled wall and unexplained noises contributed to the theater’s lore.

What they’re saying: “I can definitely say I’ve heard stuff and felt things. I definitely think the Oakley brothers have a presence,’’ said Katherine Lamb, the playhouse’s marketing director. 

Believe in them or not, the brothers have brought publicity and revenue to the nonprofit playhouse. 

• They inspired the 2010 fictional short film “Lumiere Fantome” (“Ghost Light” in French), shot at the playhouse and narrated by actor Burt Reynolds, who performed at the playhouse before becoming a Hollywood star.
• They’ve been portrayed by actors leading haunted playhouse tours.

What’s happening: On Dec. 3, the playhouse will host a Roaring ’20s-style centennial celebration with hors d’oeuvres, desserts and drinks from a password-only speakeasy. 

• There will be a band, silent movies with live piano accompaniment, birthday cake and a silent auction. 
• Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their best ’20s attire. 
• Tickets are $100 per couple and $60 for singles, with the proceeds going to playhouse renovations.  

There’s more to the story: Read about the Oakley brothers’ imprint on Lake Worth Beach history, their tragic end and the modern-day search for their spirits at ByJoeCapozzi.