When the State Theatre opened its doors in 1921, movies were still silent. The grand opening was celebrated in true community fashion, featuring a concert by the Zumbrota Band. John Klug opened the evening with an organ solo, followed by three films: The Little Match Girl, The Child Thou Gavest Me, and the comedy Robinson Crusoe. It was the beginning of a long tradition of entertainment at the State.
Over the years, the theatre was more than just a movie house. In the 1950s, radio programs were broadcast from the State, including a weekly show hosted by The Polka Dots. For decades, Zumbrota High School held plays and events there until the mid-1950s.
In 1954, Bob and Betty Mowry purchased the theatre. At that time, admission was 50 cents for adults, 35 cents for students, and just 12 cents for children. The State was open every night of the week, with Friday and Saturday reserved for cowboy movies—a favorite tradition for many families.
In 1994, ownership passed to Bob and Connie Hawley. With the help of their three sons, they worked tirelessly to keep movies alive in Zumbrota. For more than 13 years, the State showed first-run films. But as the movie industry shifted to digital formats, smaller independent theaters like the State struggled to secure new releases.
In 2009, the Zumbrota Area Arts Council (ZAAC) launched a campaign to save the theatre. Thanks to strong community support, the campaign was successful, and the State Theatre was purchased by ZAAC in 2011.
Since then, two additional capital campaigns have allowed for major improvements, including expanded facilities, restored seating, and a refreshed lobby.
In 2025, ZAAC officially transitioned into operating solely as the Zumbrota State Theatre, ensuring that this historic venue continues to serve as a hub for movies, live performances, and community events for generations to come.
