Orpheum Theatre (Phoenix, Arizona)

Orpheum Theatre

Address	203 W. Adams St. Phoenix, Arizona United States
Owner	Phoenix Convention Center & Venues
Operator	Phoenix Convention Center & Venues
Type	Touring Theater
Capacity	1,364
Construction
Opened	1929
Reopened	January 28, 1997
Tenants
Theater League Phoenix
Website
orpheumtheatrephx.com
Orpheum Theater Phoenix
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Architect	Lescher & Mahoney; Gilbert, Hugh
Architectural style	Spanish Revival/Baroque Revival
MPS	Phoenix Commercial MRA
NRHP reference No.	85002067
Added to NRHP	September 4, 1985

The Orpheum Theatre is a 1364-seat theatre 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 renamed, "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. After the performance, Ms. Channing, still in costume but out of character, thanked the audience for "not turning this beautiful theatre into a parking lot!"

Present day

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

https://www.phoenixconventioncenter.com/orpheum-theatre/

Interior

Detail of exterior frieze

See also

• List of historic properties in Phoenix, Arizona

External links

• Official Orpheum Theatre website