The 20th century marked the beginning of Toronto’s theatrical development. The first Royal Alexandra Theatre appeared here in 1907. It is an architectural masterpiece, which is recognized as one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The combination of silk, velvet, crystal chandeliers and marble creates a luxurious and wealthy atmosphere around. The performances of its actors introduce the audience to the culture and history of the city. But where did it all start? What is the history of the theatre and what do we know about it? Learn more at itoronto.
Foundation and construction of the Royal Alexandra Theatre
The first institutions for cultural recreation began to appear in Toronto in the 90s. Thus, the everyday life of local residents became more diverse and interesting. Some of those who made a significant contribution to the development of cultural activities in the city were the entrepreneur and architect John Macintosh Lyle and the millionaire Cawthra Mulock. They dreamed of creating the best theatre in North America, which would glorify Toronto and become a popular place for cultural recreation. The construction of the theatre began on their initiative in 1905. They decided to give it the European and distinguishing name “Alexandra”.
What does the first Toronto theatre look like?
John Macintosh was the architect of the Royal Alexandra Theatre. The millionaire Mulock gave him more than $1, 500,000 to make a project of the best theatre on the continent and organise its construction. John created a luxurious building with a marble lobby, Venetian-style floors, and a vintage staircase. He also added to his project many architectural novelties of the 20th century, such as an air-conditioning system, a bar, seating areas, a place for an orchestra, a ground floor and an upper balcony.
The construction of the oldest theatrical venue ended in 1907. The theatre is located at 260 King St West in Toronto. It remains one of the most beautiful theatres in the city. Its interior is made in the 19th-century British classical style. It features expensive furniture, crystal chandeliers, red chairs, a huge stage, many decorations for theatrical performances and many more.
The first years of the Royal Alexandra Theatre
The Royal Alexandra Theatre was built near King Street next to the Government Buildings, the Lieutenant General’s Estate and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. The first premiere of the theatre was called Top o’ th’ World. The lead role was performed by Anna Laughlin, an American actress of drama and silent films. After that, Broadway musicals, which were created on the basis of classical plays, were staged here too.
At first, the Royal Alexandra Theatre wasn’t so popular and faced an economic crisis. Also, it had to compete with another venue, Princess Theatre, which was located in 2 blocks. However, in 1915, it was closed, so the Royal Alexandra Theatre remained the only theatre in the city.
Though, it wasn’t the end of the hard times. Since the 1940s, many cultural institutions, including the Royal Alexandra Theatre, couldn’t compete with radio studios, cinemas and television. Thus, it was sold to local store owner Ed Mirvish for $250,000 in 1963. He promised to continue to develop the theatre for, at least, the next 5 years.
The new owner closed the theatre for a year but then reopened it. The first premiere after a long break was the comedy It’s Never Too Late. Later, the theatre housed touring shows and Broadway rehearsals for actors from Toronto and other cities. It also hosted members of the Canadian Opera, the National Ballet as well as the annual vocal and drama competition. Then a lot of cafes, bars and restaurants appeared next to the theatre. In 1975, the City Hall recognized it as part of the Toronto historical heritage and gave it the status of a National Historic Site of Canada.