Orpheum Theatre (Phoenix, Arizona)

Orpheum Theater
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Orpheum Theatre, Phoenix
Location:	Phoenix, Arizona
Coordinates:	33°26′56.73″N 112°4′33.3″W
Built:	1927
Architect:	Lescher & Mahoney; Gilbert, Hugh
Architectural style:	Spanish Revival/Baroque Revival
Governing body:	Local
MPS:	Phoenix Commercial MRA
NRHP Reference#:	85002067
Added to NRHP:	September 4, 1985

The Orpheum Theatre is a small theatre (seating 1364) in downtown Phoenix. This venue was originally used for vaudeville acts as part of the nationwide Orpheum Circuit.

History

Construction began in 1927 and was completed in 1929 for a total cost of $750,000. It was designed by architects Lescher & Mahoney, with Hugh Gilbert associated, and built for owner-operators J.E. Rickards and Harry Nace. Built in a Spanish Revival style of Spanish Baroque architecture 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."

In the 1940s the Orpheum was purchased by the Paramount Pictures chain, and re-named, "The Paramount." In the 60's Nederlander purchased it to add it as a stop on the Broadway circuit. Throughout the 60's until its restoration, it was renamed, "Palace West."

Throughout the late 70's and early 80's, the Theatre was leased to a local Mexican family, the Coronas, who presented Hispanic events and movies. 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.

Restoration

After falling into disrepair for some years, the Orpheum Theatre was purchased in 1984 by the City of Phoenix, which then began a 12 year, $14 million restoration. The Conrad Schmitt Studios created the transformation and the Orpheum reopened on January 28, 1997, with a performance of Hello, Dolly! starring Carol Channing.

Present day

The Orpheum Theatre is the current home of the Phoenix Metropolitan Opera.

The Orpheum Theatre of Phoenix was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

Gallery

Interior

Detail of exterior frieze

External links

• official Orpheum Theatre website
• Friends of the Orpheum Theater website