Historic Monarch Theatre in Medicine Hat, Alberta

Medicine Hat is one of Canada's most historic prairie cities. Its built along the Trans-Canada Highway just west of the Saskatchewan border and has many historic buildings that remain in its commercial centre. 

One of the most historically significant buildings is the historic Monarch Theatre. Located in the city's old and very historic downtown, the Monarch has a long and storied past.  

I was not aware of it when I first visited Medicine Hat, but this building catches your eye immediately. I have not seen anything like it in other small prairie cities that I have visited.

Historical Significance of the Monarch Theatre

The Monarch was the first building in Canada to be purpose built as a movie theatre, and since it remains in use as a movie theatre today, it remains the oldest operating movie house in Canada. 

Originally, the facility also included a billiards room and tobacco shop making it an entertainment destination of sorts.  

The Monarch screened its first film on December 21, 1911 with a showing of Mutt and Jeff. Typically, there were a couple of movies shown each day, each of which was accompanied by a small orchestra. The orchestra was 'retired' after movies started shipping with sound. 

The Monarch has changed hands a number of times over the years, but has some how managed to survive despite the volatility and technological advances that newer theatres come equipped with today. 

Medicine Hat, Alberta, art deco


Architectural Significance of the Monarch Theatre

The Monarch was deigned in the Beaux Arts style by architect William T. Williams. In 1935, the exterior underwent a significant renovation and the building was adapted to its current Streamline Moderne-style.  

Before I had started researching this building, I had thought it was art deco.  But apparently not.  The building is two stories and is designed with two vertical design elements that sit on each side of the entry.

The interior was also remodelled with an Art Deco design that included Moorish details. It was intended to project a sense of luxury and refinement. 

The Monarch Theatre is a listed building and included on the Alberta List of Historic Places. 

Medicine Hat, Alberta, art deco


Monarch Theatre Today

The Monarch Theatre fell victim to the big, technologically advance movie houses and closed in 2007. After sitting empty for a few years, the City of Medicine Hat purchased the building. The Friends of the Monarch Theatre was established and eventually, after significant fund raising, the Monarch reopened for use. 

At the time of writing this article, it does not look like the theatre is running daily movies but showing movies for scheduled events only. If anyone can let me know if there are regular movies I would appreciate knowing. 

Check out the Monarch Theatre website for more information or to donate. 

Location 

609 2nd St SE, Medicine Hat, AB, Canada, T1A 0C8

Medicine Hat, Alberta, art deco




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Location: Medicine Hat, AB, Canada

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