The True Edwardian Theatres

I personally love vintage and extravagant places. The Elgin and Winter Garden Theaters are a must see on my list of Toronto attractions. The Winter Garden Theater is seven floor above Elgin Theater. They are most and unique in their way because they are the last surviving Edwardian theaters in the world. Their designing architecture was Thomas W. Lamb, and they were intended to compete in their different aspect of the market at that time. The two theaters were constructed in 1913, they have completely different characteristics just like two distinctive beauties.

Outside view of the two theaters

The upper floor theater, Winter Garden Theater was intended for upper-middle class customers. It had reserved seats for premium paying customers. It had country garden feeling to its decoration.

The ceiling made you feel like you are in a floating garden and it feels magical. 

The Winter Garden theater was closed for sixty years since 1928, until 1989 it was restored and finally opened its door to the public.

The Elgin Theater kept on performing various acts until 1981 when Ontario Heritage Foundation bought the building from Famous Players and the Car was successfully shown in the theater. The Foundation saw the potential of the theater, they closed for restoration in 1987 and after 2 years they reopened to the public. Now, the Elgin Theater also served as one of the locations to host the annual  International Film Festival. To me, these two theaters were so magnificent, they are beautiful and they tell so much stories. 

You can get a tour of the theaters for just $12.00, Thursdays at 5:00 pm and Saturdays at 11:00 am. 

No reservation required.

Now you can get a virtual tour of the theater:Virtual Tour

Foe more information: Elgin and Winter Garden Theaters