Theatre’s Renovation Considered Milestone in Revitalization of Downtown Phoenix

This Sunday, Jan. 28 will mark the 10th anniversary of the monumental restoration and grand reopening of the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Phoenix. Often cited as one of the first major restorative projects in historic downtown, the Orpheum ushered in a brand new era when it reopened its doors Jan. 28, 1997 after a $14 million renovation.

Originally built in 1929, the theatre saw the rise and fall of downtown Phoenix and had almost fallen into disrepair before being purchased in 1984 by the city of Phoenix as part of the rebirth of historic downtown. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985, the theatre is considered one of the last remaining examples of theatre palace architecture and is the only theater that is designated as “historic” in the Valley.

“The rebirth of downtown Phoenix began with projects like the restoration of the Orpheum Theatre,” said Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon. “This historic treasure is a vital component to the cultural heart of downtown Phoenix and has been a model in the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts.”

Since reopening its doors 10 years ago, this born-again national landmark has welcomed nearly 1.5 million guests, playing host to touring Broadway groups, musical concerts, and speakers (*see attached list of notable performances and guests). Owned by the city of Phoenix, the Orpheum Theatre is operated by the Phoenix Convention Center and Venues Department, which also operates Symphony Hall, Herberger Theatre and the Phoenix Convention Center.

“Since its restoration, the Orpheum has introduced a new generation of Phoenicians to a rich variety of musical and theatrical productions,” said Bob Allen, deputy director of venue management for the Phoenix Convention Center and Venues Department. “The theatre is truly a point of pride for our community and is the historic home for arts and entertainment in downtown Phoenix.”

The $14 million, 12-year renovation effort was initiated in 1987 by a major financial gift to the project by The Junior League of Phoenix. That effort was solidified with the birth of the Orpheum Theatre Foundation, a nonprofit organization that was created to seek private/public donations to save the theatre. Shortly thereafter, The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre group was formed to provide volunteer support for community and fundraising activities benefiting the theatre’s restoration. In 1988, voters approved a $7 million citizen bond initiative that was combined with additional funding from the Phoenix Civic Plaza Building Corporation to fund the facility’s historic restoration.

The four-phase project was led by architects van Dijk, Pace, Westlake of Phoenix and Cleveland and included the full restoration of the theatre’s original intricate moldings and rich landscape murals. In addition, the original stage house was expanded, and up-to-date theatrical technologies were added to allow for adaptive reuse as a modern-day theatre venue. While the Foundation disbanded in 2000 after several years of presenting activities, The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre continue to provide guided tours, volunteer ushering and support for fundraising and educational programs.

Originally built for movies and vaudeville acts, the Orpheum Theatre first opened its doors Jan. 5, 1929. Built by J.E. Rickards and Harry Nace at a cost of $750,000, the palatial Orpheum Theatre was one of the most extravagant venues of its time.

Notable Orpheum Theatre Performances and Guests Since 1997:

Celebrity Performers:

International Groups:

Touring Productions:

Speakers and Political Events: