Tivoli Theatre

Theatre.

Details of Site Location: Richmond Street East at Victoria Street, on the southwest corner.

Boundary History: 140′ by 130′ facing onto Richmond Street.

Current Use of Property: The Cambridge Suites Hotel.

Historical Description: The Allen Theatre (later called the Tivoli) was owned by the Temple Theatre Corporation, with B. Allen as president, Jule Allen as secretary-treasurer, and Jay Allen as vice-president. A modern fireproof construction, the exterior of the theatre was made from [rug???] brick; the interior had Roman amphitheatre-style seating. The opening was on 12 November 1917. Before the important movie, the Allen Concert Orchestra played the overture from Phèdre. Then a comedian did a sketch, and at last the movie! This was The Little American starring Mary Pickford, with scenario and production by Cecil B. DeMille. After the movie the orchestra played another classical piece. Ticket prices in the daytime were 15 cents or 25 cents for a box, and in the evening 25 cents or 50 cents for a box.

Relative Importance: It is interesting to know the progression of a city site.

Planning Implications: A plaque with a picture of the theatre could be placed on the building currently on the site. The hotel’s guests might be interested.

Reference Sources: John C. Lindsay, Turn Out the Stars before Leaving (1983); City of Toronto Archives (pictures Sc 268-1662, Sc 231-842, Sc 257-500; advertisements Sc 488 0 2326, Sc 488 – 2587).