The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

The Daily Campus

The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

The Independent Voice of Southern Methodist University Since 1915

The Daily Campus

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Historical Bath House offers modern entertainment

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The Bath House Cultural Center is located on White Rock Lake. (Courtesy of flickriver.com)


Take a stroll on the shores of White Rock Lake. Visit a museum that focuses on one of Dallas’ most culturally significant landmarks. Check out an art gallery. And even travel back to an early 20th century supper club.

All of this in one spot: The Dallas Bath House Cultural Center located in White Rock Lake Valley.

Built in 1930, the Bath House originally served as a place to clean up after a dip in the lake that was once considered a swimming hole. When swimming in the lake was banned in 1958, the Bath House was abandoned and nature took its course on the yellow Art Deco building.

In 1980, Mother Nature was cleared out of the Bath House and the building was converted into a cultural center supporting local theater and artists.

The Echo Theater takes the Bath House back to its glory days in the ‘30s when the center’s small 116-seat theater is turned into a ‘30s supper club complete with timeless songs from Dorthy Fields, Maria Grever and more. Directed by Shelby-Allison Hibbs, the show includes a live band, dance floor, musical/dance revue and
light refreshments.

The idea was conceived by five women. The last shows play Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $35 and the show starts at 8 p.m.

The White Rock Museum was incorporated into the Bath House in 2004. Wildlife, the history of the lake, the Hunt family home and even the story of Lady of the Lake are all found in the small but informative museum. It’s even interactive.

Hearts are the theme of the current collection in the art gallery. But these aren’t Valentine’s Day hearts; they’re human hearts in a variety of mediums: sculpture, oil, acrylic, multi-media. If one does fall in love with one of the heart pieces, purchase shouldn’t be a problem.

Outside the Art-Deco styled building, acres of scenic walking trails along the lake should take up to several hours of time.

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