From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Orpheum Theatre is a small, intimate theatre (seating 1,364) in downtown Phoenix. It was originally used for vaudeville acts as part of the nationwide Orpheum Theatre chain.
Construction began in 1927 and was completed in 1929 for a total cost of $750,000. It was designed and built by architects J.E. Rickards and Harry Nace. Built in a Spanish Baroque style, intricate murals and moldings were an integral part of the design, all meant to give patrons the impression that they were enjoying the shows "al fresco." At one point all the murals and moldings were painted black when the Orpheum was used to show Spanish films. It was thought that such decorations would detract from the films.
After falling into disrepair, the City of Phoenix purchased the Orpheum Theatre in 1984 and began a 12 year, $14 million restoration. On January 28, 1997 the first performance of the Orpheum's reopening was "Hello, Dolly" starring Carol Channing.
The Orpheum Theatre is the current home of the Phoenix Metropolitan Opera.[2]
The Orpheum Theatre of Phoenix was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
Detail of exterior frieze
[edit] References
