The next time you’re in Toronto, if you want to see a Broadway-caliber show, a famous touring comedian, or an international musical superstar during your trip, chances are you might just be heading towards the venerable Winter Garden. But with all due respect to the famed players who have taken the stage at this illustrious venue, the theater itself might just be the star of the show.
That’s because the Winter Garden Theatre in Toronto isn’t just any big city professional theater. First of all, it’s a double decker venue that consists of two interconnected theaters, one on top of the other. The lower theater, known as the “Winter Garden,” is the primary performance space, while the upper theater, called the “Loew’s Theatre,” is a smaller venue.
Even more unusual, the Winter Garden Theatre features what was known in the early 20th century as an “atmospheric design” style. The theater’s interior is designed to resemble an outdoor garden, complete with painted trees, flowers, and a starry sky on the ceiling. The intention was to create an immersive experience for the audience, simulating a nighttime garden setting.
To further enhance the natural garden atmosphere, the Winter Garden Theatre incorporates numerous natural elements including real trees, shrubs, and ivy vines installed throughout the theater, creating what many audience members have described as “surreal.”
Winter Garden Theatre Toronto by Amanda N Sherrington licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
The design of the theater also features elaborate Rococo Revival architectural elements, incorporating ornate details, intricate plasterwork, and grand chandeliers, all reminiscent of the opulence and elegance of the late 19th century.
The Winter Garden opened in 1913 and was initially used for vaudeville performances, showcasing a variety of acts, including comedy, music, and dance. Over the years, it has hosted numerous notable performers and productions, adding to its cultural significance. Notable productions at the theater have included touring productions of The Lion King, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, and Come From Away. Famous folk that have trod the boards of the Winter Garden include Al Jolson, Greta Garbo, Sophie Tucker, George Burns, Liza Minnelli, and Sting.
In the 1980s, the Winter Garden faced the possibility of demolition. However, it was saved through restoration efforts led by the Ontario Heritage Trust and was reopened in 1989. The theater’s restoration aimed to retain its original design and atmosphere, preserving its unusual features for future generations.
The Winter Garden continues to be a prominent venue for theatrical performances in Toronto.
Featured Photo: Toronto – Winter Garden Theater by Chris Fiore licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
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