Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre
The beautiful Elgin and Wintergarden Theatres are the only double-decker theatre still operating in the world
Elgin Theatre and the Wintergarden Theatre are 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 and they serve premier venue to the Toronto International Film Festival. For a nominal fee the theatres offer a public tour every Thursday at 5 pm and Saturday at 11 am. For additional information about the Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre and upcoming concerts and events see their official website above.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesAddress: 189 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5B 1M4, Canada
Phone: (416) 314-2901
Official Website: Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre
Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre Reviews
Rated out of 5
This theatre venue is like a museum, dream like, and magical. I saw Tango after Dark here, and my Oh my had a blast. I love everything about this theatre and it's warranted a visit.
Geeta Chand - 2 weeks ago
Watched Kumail Nanjiani's comedy stand up, it was my first time at this venue. It's absolutely gorgeous! Vintage, classy and beautiful interior. Even the elevators are old school 🤗 highly recommended for any performances
Mariya Fateh - 2 months ago
We watched Mo Giligan at this theatre and it was a great experience. The security and staff are friendly. The orchestra seats were surprisingly spacious and comfortable for a 100-year-old theatre, I would still suggest end of row tickets if you are tall. The theatre is stunning and so well designed. The only complaint was the lack of good snack options. There should also be restrictions on people arriving very late.
Jeevan D - a month ago
The Elgin and Winter Garden theatre is an exceptionally beautiful historical building. Taking a tour of the theatre is like taking a tour through time. The interior has been restored to replicate the exact style and design that was present back when it was first built. The Elgin theatre is so sophisticated and elegant - it’s fit for royalty. The Winter Garden theatre, that is stacked right on top of the Elgin theatre, is so magical and wondrous - it’s like wandering into a fairytale. The beauty of this place is really captivating.
Janice, our tour guide, made the tour very interesting, immersing us into the atmosphere of those times and ensuring we felt the thrill of seeing this historical place.
I’m so glad the building was saved from demolition - it truly is a treasure that will hopefully continue to inspire and amaze many, many generations ahead.
A K - 5 months ago
We had the opportunity to watch Music Travel Love at the Elgin Theatre last Nov15th and it was just so charming and magical. I think it works perfectly with the artists who took us back in time through nostalgic songs and more. Amazing place— the traditional elevators were interesting too.
Regina Labayen - 4 months ago
Directions
| TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yonge-University-Spadina | Queen Station | 1 Minute |
How to get to Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre Centre by TTC Subway
No buses needed. From Queen Station walk ½ block north on Yonge Street.
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Photo Gallery
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Interior of the lower Elgin Theatre cc licensed photo by go ask alice . . . -
Facade of the double-decker Elgin and Wintergarden Theatre cc licensed photo by SimonP -
Photo Credit: dtstuff9 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr
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