The Winter Garden Theatre in Toronto is a unique and historic venue that has seen a fascinating evolution since its inception. Designed by Thomas W. Lamb, this Edwardian atmospheric theatre is part of the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres complex, which opened in 1913. Over the years, it has undergone significant changes, reflecting the broader trends in entertainment and architecture.
Early Beginnings and Design
The Winter Garden Theatre was originally built as the flagship of
Marcus Loew's theatre chain in 1913. Architect Thomas W. Lamb, who later designed the Ed Mirvish Theatre nearby, was responsible for its design. The theatre was part of a pair of stacked theatres, with the Winter Garden located seven stories above the Elgin Theatre. This unique design made them the last surviving Edwardian stacked theatres in the world.
The Winter Garden was designed to be an 'atmospheric' theatre, creating the illusion of a country garden under the stars. The interior featured murals of plants and garden trellises, tree trunk columns, and lantern lights, providing a unique and immersive experience for patrons. This design catered to the 'Big Time' vaudeville market, with reserved seats at premium prices for affluent patrons.
Changes and Challenges
By 1928, the entertainment landscape was changing with the advent of sound films. The lower Elgin Theatre was converted to show these new films, while the Winter Garden was closed. It remained shuttered for about sixty years, during which time it housed a large collection of vaudeville flats and scenery, now the world's largest surviving collection.
In 1969, the Elgin Theatre was sold to Famous Players, and by the 1970s, it was showing mainly B movies and soft-core pornography. However, the success of the musical Cats at the Elgin Theatre from 1985 to 1987 demonstrated the venue's economic viability, leading to a renewed interest in its restoration.
Restoration and Revival
In 1981, the Ontario Heritage Foundation purchased the structure, and the Elgin Theatre was closed as a movie theatre. A full restoration of the sister theatres took place from 1987 to 1989, preserving their historical significance and architectural beauty. The Winter Garden Theatre reopened, continuing to host a variety of performances, including plays, opera, music, and film.
Today, the Winter Garden Theatre stands as a testament to Toronto's rich cultural history, offering a glimpse into the past while continuing to serve as a vibrant venue for the arts. Its unique design and historical significance make it a cherished landmark in the city.
