Entertainment came of age in Okmulgee as a result of oil money. Okmulgee was home to two Vaudeville theatres, one of which still stands today. The Orpheum Theatre has undergone renovation and features first run movies and special events today.

The Cook Theatre was built by L.H.D. Cook (opening in 1921) who kept busy in the business end of vaudeville. The three story building had double-stacked balconies with a divider, lounges upstairs and boxes built into the downstairs walls. The stage had trap doors and elevators leading to the basement. Cook changed the name to the Orpheum when he signed a contract with the Orpheum Vaudeville Circuit to bring in traveling shows.