The fonds consists of two programmes and one news clipping of the Empire Theatre which opened in 1920 on 103 Street just north of Jasper Avenue. It operated as Edmonton's premier theatre until it was converted into offices during the Second World War. Its lifespan was roughly coincidental with the golden age of drama, opera, and vaudeville. Stars such as Harry Lauder, Charlie Chaplin, and Will Rogers were among the performers. The building was used not only as a playhouse but also for political gatherings, sports broadcasts, and city theatrical productions.
Note: both programmes include a variety of advertisements of local businesses of the time, including full page ads for Swift’s on the inside front covers.
Item List:
- Programme – “The Victorian Maid – A Musical Comedy”, New Empire Theatre, Feb. 10th, 11th & 12th, 1921;
- Programme – “The Girl Of My Dreams – A Musical Comedy”, New Empire Theatre, Feb. 23rd, 24th & 25th 1922;
- Newspaper clipping – “’The Three Twins’ Goes With Eclat From Rise to Drop of the Curtain at Empire Theatre”, unknown paper, n.d.