Empress Theatre – B&W Building

Description

Empress Theatre – B&W Building

The Empress Theatre holds significance as one of the few remaining examples of small-town theater architecture in Alberta and stands as the last theater in Fort Macleod. Constructed in 1912 during a period of prosperity for the town. The theatre mirrors the social and cultural life of Fort Macleod.

Amidst the growth spurred by the development of rail lines and the ranching industry before World War I, the Empress emerged as a vital hub for the social fabric of the prairie town. While its exterior was intentionally modest to align with Fort Macleod’s streetscape. The theater earned a reputation as a first-class establishment. With a seating capacity for four hundred.  It boasted plush chairs and Tiffany-style lamps, embodying the opulence typical of theaters in that era.

Originally a versatile cultural center hosting vaudeville acts, community plays, concerts, lectures, meetings, and political rallies. The Empress played a crucial role in southern Alberta. In its early 1940s heyday, spurred by wartime economic activity, the theater experienced a resurgence. Prompting a rich refurbishment of its interior. However, as television emerged, the Empress transitioned exclusively into a movie theater.

The building’s historical significance extends beyond its entertainment role. It remains a key element in preserving the historic character of Fort Macleod’s main street.

Empress Theatre – B&W Building Print

Empress Theatre – B&W Building is available in various sizes to complement your space. This captivating image is perfect for both home and office settings. Printed on high-quality metallic photo paper, each print is meticulously coated with a fine leather texture coating. This not only enhances the image’s texture but also protects it from glare and scratches, ensuring its longevity.

Offering worldwide shipping, you can bring the allure of this photograph to any corner of the globe. For local enthusiasts in Lethbridge, pickup options include ordering a printed, laminated, and mounted print or opting for professional framing at our Lethbridge office.