The Palace Theatre, located on Stephen Avenue, is a historic landmark in Calgary. This multifunctional space, known for its luxurious style and unique design, was once considered one of the grandest buildings in Western Canada. Since its construction in 1921, it has served various purposes, including as a theater, cinema, orchestra venue, radio studio, evangelical hub, concert hall, nightclub, and sports bar. Discover more about its history on calgary-trend.
Opened as a Movie Palace
The building was constructed as a movie palace during the post-World War I era, before the stock market crash and the Great Depression. Designed in Edwardian style by American architect Crane S. Howard, who was behind more than 250 movie palaces during his career, the Palace Theatre became a beacon of cultural entertainment.
It hosted not only films but also orchestral performances, vaudeville acts, and variety shows.
The Palace Theatre was part of the Allen Theatres network, Canada’s first theater chain, founded by the Allen family in 1912. By 1921, Allen Theatres had opened nearly 100 venues across Canada, presenting cinema, particularly silent films, as a legitimate and accessible form of entertainment.
However, plans for U.S. and UK expansion were thwarted by the stock market crash, dwindling audiences, and financial challenges, leading to the chain’s bankruptcy. By 1923 (or 1925, according to some sources), the Palace Theatre was sold to Famous Players.
A Venue for Radio, Evangelism, and Culture
Beyond showing films, the Palace Theatre played a significant role in Calgary’s early radio broadcasting history. In 1922, it hosted the city’s first public radio broadcast, featuring a performance by three orchestra members transmitted by Calgary Herald’s radio station (later CFAC).
The 1,700-seat theater also served as a hub for religious gatherings. Starting in November 1925, evangelical preacher William Aberhart, known as “Bible Bill” for his outspoken Baptist views, hosted religious radio broadcasts from the theater on Sunday evenings. These broadcasts helped disseminate his religious and political ideologies, ultimately leading to the founding of the Social Credit Party and his election as Premier of Alberta.
During World War II, the Palace Theatre hosted charity concerts and for three decades served as a venue for theatrical and musical performances. However, in 1955, the opening of the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium shifted the focus of Calgary’s cultural and community events. Despite this, the Palace Theatre continued operating as a cinema.
Closure and Repurposing
On February 8, 1990, the Palace Theatre screened its final film, Tango & Cash, before closing its doors. Six years later, a $4 million restoration project began, led by the Stephen Avenue Heritage Society. The four-story building’s opulent interior was preserved, while the facade was slightly modified. In 1998, it reopened as a cigar lounge and nightclub.
By 2004, the building closed again and remained vacant until 2007, when it reopened as Flames Central, a restaurant, sports bar, nightclub, and concert venue. In 2017, the venue underwent a rebranding, reverting to its original name, the Palace Theatre. It is now a multifunctional space hosting concerts, music performances, seminars, symposiums, corporate events, and more.
Historical and Architectural Significance
The Palace Theatre exemplifies Alberta’s commercial architecture from 1885 to 1930 and stands as a rare example of the Allen Theatres network, pioneers of film distribution in Canada. The Allen family popularized Canadian content and created spaces for artists to showcase their talents. The theater played a vital role in Calgary’s cultural life, providing an elegant venue for a variety of films and live entertainment.
The building’s significance also lies in its status as one of the few surviving works of Crane S. Howard. Features like rectangular windows on the gables and ample interior resting spaces are hallmarks of Howard’s designs.
Boasting intricate plaster ceilings, elegant exteriors, and grand marble staircases, the Palace Theatre earned its reputation as Canada’s most beautiful theater. In 1996, it was designated a National Historic Site.
Notable Architectural Features
- Facade: Red brick facade divided into seven bays with Corinthian pilasters.
- Windows: A mix of arched and double-hung windows with decorative balconies.
- Decor: Decorative plasterwork on ceilings, columns, and friezes; French Art Deco iron motifs.
- Interior Layout: Includes a ticket vestibule, foyer, three lounges, a balcony, an orchestra pit, and a smoking room.
Modern renovations added advanced acoustics and audiovisual systems suitable for both rock shows and corporate seminars. Private spaces on the third floor offer exclusive services and panoramic views.
A Popular Venue
Thanks to its stunning architecture and exceptional interiors, the Palace Theatre is a sought-after wedding venue. It offers customizable decor, superb acoustics, and a large screen for personal displays like wedding monograms. The marquee, which can be uniquely configured, remains a standout feature.
A Story of Revival
The Palace Theatre is a shining example of how investment in heritage buildings can restore their former glory while reimagining their purpose. It continues to be a cherished landmark in Calgary, blending historical significance with modern functionality.
