Located in downtown Memphis, lies The Orpheum Theatre. On the southwest corner of South Main and Beale streets, this historic theater hosts many Broadway shows, concerts, and more! Find out the history of how the theatre became known today. You can even tour the theatre too! Let’s jump right into some things to know about The Orpheum Theatre.
The History of the Theatre
Built in the 1890s, The Orpheum Theatre was considered the classiest theatre in the area. First known as the Grand Opera House. In 1907, The Grand became a part of the Orpheum Circuit, which was soon known as the Orpheum.
In October of 1923, there was a fire that had destroyed the Orpheum. The cause of the blaze is still unknown today. 1927, the construction of the new $1.6 million theatre began. Soon to be known as the largest building in the Orpheum Circuit. With 2,800 seats, the new auditorium was furnished with silent films and a live theatre.
In 1940, the Orpheum couldn’t survive the Great Depression. This was due to motion pictures becoming the preferred entertainment. The M.A. Lightman then purchased the Orpheum and the theatre was then known as the Malco. 1976, Single-screen movie theatres became no longer profitable, and the Malco was then sold. Concerned Citizens then formed the Memphis Development Foundation in hopes of saving the theatres and kick-start a downtown reawakening.
The following year the Foundation purchased the building and it was then renamed the Orpheum. Live performances and the Broadway shows had soon returned. The Orpheum Theatre had become one of the first buildings in Memphis to be added to the National Register of Historic Places. In December of 1982, the Orpheum was closed for renovations. With the generous donations of the Mid-South Community, $5 million was raised for the building to be restored to its 1928 opulence.
The 1997-1998 Broadway season opened with the Phantom of the Opera on a new extended stage. With the newly extended stage, the Orpheum had brought many Broadway favorites to Memphis. In 2011, the theatre accommodated students, teachers, and families with community and educational programs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, The Orpheum Theatre had found new ways for the community to engage in the events. Such as a Broadway-themed mini-golf course, and many programs transitioning to being online. For the first time ever, in 2021, the Orpheum Theatre hosted outdoor performances. In September 2023, the Orpheum Theatre revealed The Balcony Project, an educational exhibit in place of the once segregated black-only balcony entrance.
Today, the Orpheum Theatre showcases many live performances, shows, movies, and more!
Tours of the Orpheum Theatre
As you go through the art deco rooms of the theatre, your hosts will tell you about the history of the Orpheum Theatre and how it became this incredible building today. You may also learn about the sweet but mischievous ghost, Mary.
You can now tour the historic Theatre on select Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Admission for tours is $10 a person with free admission for children under 5. Private tours can be booked for a party of 20 or more.
The Mission, Vision, and Values of the Orpheum Theatre
What is their Mission?
Their mission is to “enhance the communities by utilizing the performing arts to entertain, educate, and enlighten while preserving the historic Orpheum Theatre”.
What are their Values?
- Innovative – take risks and invest in new ideas
- Inclusive – welcome and accept to all
- Inspirational – motivate a positive change through the performing arts
- Integrity – act ethical and consider all viewpoints
- Impactful – provide meaningful opportunity
- Transformative – change lives, Memphis and the World
What is their Vision?
The Orpheum Theatre’s vision is to strive to be a world-class performing arts organization.
Need an idea for a Hotel in the Area?
Have you just finished exploring or experiencing the magnificent Orpheum Theatre? Now it is time for you to relax after a long day at the theater. Do you need an idea for a hotel to stay at? Not to worry Hotel Pontotoc has you covered! Musicians, writers, actors, artists, riverboat captains, and other malcontents have even stayed here.
Experience a hotel that is rich in history as well as luxurious ambiance. Our restored rooms and suites offer you the perfect amount of charm and comfort. Ensuring you with a memorable stay.
The Guest Rooms
The Studio:
Perfect for all your work, play, and relaxation needs. This room has a similar layout to a house, with a comfy king bed, a spacious bathroom, plush robes, a work desk, and a full-sized fridge within the kitchenette.
The Suite:
For solo travelers and couples, similar to the Studio, this room features a luxurious king bed, a spacious bathroom, plush robes, a work desk, a full-sized fridge, and even complimentary Wi-Fi. Not to mention it is also pet-friendly!
To book your stay, visit our “booking” page. Have any questions or need assistance? Contact us through our “Contact” page or email us at info@hotelpontotoc.com.
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