Orpheum Theatre
203 West Adams Street,
Phoenix,
AZ
85003
203 West Adams Street,
Phoenix,
AZ
85003
10 people
favorited this theater
Built in 1929 with a seating capacity of 1,520, the Orpheum Theatre began its life as a premier movie house and was sold in 1949 and renamed the Paramount. In 1968, movies could no longer support the theater and it was sold again. Renamed the Palace West, the theater was renovated for stage shows.
In 1977, the theater returned to movies – showcasing spanish language films. The city purchased the Orpheum Theatre in 1984 and in 1985 the theater was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Despite its new honor, the theater closed, seemingly forever, in 1986.
However, after 11 years of raising funds and renovating, the theater reopened in 1997 as a performing arts and community events center for the city of Phoenix.
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Recent comments (view all 50 comments)
There are great photos of Orpheum- here as well: I wish I knew what areas Duncan was responsible for, it is some fantastic work throughout!
http://www.cinematour.com/tour.php?db=us&id=9605
I have a handful of “Popeye Gobs” that were apparently given to children to redeem at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix. Does anyone have any info to share about these? Thanks!
Some great photos and history of the Orpheum at this link.
View link
Click each thumbnail to expand the photo.
Sorry I didn’t see it is already linked above.
Orpheum Theater (added 1985 – Building – #85002067)
Also known as 37-19
209 W. Adams, Phoenix
Historic Significance: Event
Area of Significance: Performing Arts, Commerce
Period of Significance: 1925-1949
Owner: Local Gov't
Historic Function: Recreation And Culture
Historic Sub-function: Theater
Current Function: Recreation And Culture
Current Sub-function: Theater
This is a nice 2009 photo.
1993 photo of the Orpheum Theatre.
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June 2009 photo of the Orpheum Theatre.
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View link
The Orpheum is a “Must-See” for anyone visiting Phoenix… it’s a gorgeous masterpiece of architecture. Go on one of the free tours, catch a show, and experience an old silent movie accompanied by the theatre organ.
Two other things I don’t think anyone has mentioned so far: I understand there was a search light at the top of the tower which used to revolve when there was a show going on. Also, from the downstairs lounge area, there was a glass ceiling on the one side which allowed you to look up to the street level above and see the people walking by.