Orpheum Theater

Abstract

The Orpheum Theater is located on South Main Street in downtown Memphis. It was originally known as the Grand Opera House when it opened in 1890. In 1907 it became a part of the Orpheum Circuit and became known as the Orpheum Theater. In 1923 the Orpheum burned down, but was rebuilt in 1927 by Rapp and Rapp for $1.6 million. The rebuild in 1927 to the Beaux-Arts building featured a brick exterior and free standing ticket booth. Inside, on either side of the lobby were staircases, which lead to the mezzanine. The basement held the restrooms and lounge- the men's room also combined a smoking room and terrazzo floor. The Orpheum was then refurbished in 1983, designed by Awsumb and Williamson. They closely matched the ornament and original detail by studying photos from 1927-28 to carefully reapply the pattern and 23-karat gold leaf adorning the ceiling and walls. They also repaired and repainted the Orpheum upright sign and famous theatre marquee. To learn more see Memphis: An Architectural Guide by Eugene J. Johnson.