The Historic Plains Theatre, built in 1914 by Rushville businessman David Gourley, first opened as the Gourley Opera House and was considered one of the most modern venues in western Nebraska at the time. Over the years it hosted movies, dances, and even roller skating before closing in the 1960s. Thanks to the dedication of local volunteers and business leaders, the theatre was restored in the 1990s and is now listed on the Nebraska Historic Register. Since 1998, the Plains Theatre has proudly served as the home of the Sheridan County Players, a nonprofit theatre company bringing live performances and cultural enrichment to the community.