Elgin Theatre and Wintergarden Theatre
The beautiful Elgin and Wintergarden Theatres comprise the only double-decker theatre still operating in the world
Elgin Theatre and the Wintergarden Theatre comprise one of the world's most elegant and ornate theatre complexes. They are a National Historic Site and are the only remaining double-decker theatre complex still operating in the world.
The double theatre was built in 1913 as the flagship of the Marcus Loew chain of theatres. At that time the theatres hosted plays and vaudeville productions. In 1928 the upper theatre was closed for several decades and the lower theatre eventually became a cinema. The theatres were sold to Famous Players in 1969. In 1981 the theatres were acquired by the Ontario Heritage Foundation at which time and plans for a complete restoration began to take shape. The theatres were completely, painstakingly and beautifully restored between 1987 and 1989.
The upper level Wintergarden Theatre boasts a unique design in which the ceiling is blanketed with 5000 hanging beech tree branches interspersed with Chinese lanterns. The effect is really quite unusual.
The theatres are now at the centre of Toronto's theatre scene. The theatre offers public tours on Thursdays at 5 pm and Saturdays at 11 am. Adults are $12 and Students $10. For additional information about the Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre and upcoming concerts and events see the Official Website: Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre.
