Empress Theatre (Fort Macleod) facts for kids
Empress Theatre facade
|
|
| Address | 235 Main Street, Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0 |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 49°43′33″N 113°24′27″W / 49.72573°N 113.40745°W |
| Owner | Town of Fort Macleod |
| Operator | Empress Theatre Society |
| Construction | |
| Broke ground | 1910 |
| Opened | 1912 |
| Renovated | 1940s |
| Builder | J.S. Lambert |
The Empress Theatre is a special place in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada. It's a theatre that has been open for over 110 years! It first opened its doors in 1912 and has been a hub for entertainment ever since. Today, it's run by a group called the Empress Theatre Society. They make sure this historic building continues to bring fun and culture to the community.
Contents
History of the Empress Theatre
The idea for the Empress Theatre started a long time ago. In January 1910, a newspaper called the Lethbridge Herald announced exciting news. They said that a brand-new opera house would be built in Fort Macleod. This new building would even have a special area for an orchestra!
Opening Day and Early Shows
The theatre officially opened in 1912. Back then, it was a popular spot for different kinds of shows. It hosted "vaudeville" acts, which were like variety shows with singing, dancing, comedy, and magic. It also put on plays and other performances. Even the North-West Mounted Police (who were like the police force back then) enjoyed shows here.
Changes Over the Years
Over the decades, the Empress Theatre has seen many changes. In the 1940s, the theatre was renovated. This means it was updated and improved to keep up with the times. Even with these changes, it has kept its historic charm. It continues to be a beloved landmark in Fort Macleod.
Architecture and Design
The Empress Theatre is a two-story building made of brick. It was designed to fit in with the other buildings on Main Street. Its front, called the facade, looks simple and classic.
Inside the Theatre
When you step inside, you can see many of its original features. It still has its first balcony, where people can sit and watch the shows from above. The seating arrangements are also original, giving you a sense of what it was like over a century ago. There are also old dressing rooms where performers would get ready. Plus, it has its original projection booth, which was used to show movies.
