Capitol Theatre, Salt Lake City

The Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City stands as a landmark of culture and history in Utah. Originally opened in 1913 as the Orpheum Theatre, this grand venue was initially a vaudeville house, later renamed the Capitol Theatre in 1927, and is also referred to as the JQ Lawson Capitol Theatre. Designed in the elegant Italian Renaissance and Mannerist styles, the building’s architecture has been as much a part of its appeal as the world-class performances it has hosted.

For over a century, the Capitol Theatre has been home to distinguished resident companies like Ballet West, Utah Opera, and the Children's Dance Theater (Tanner Dance). Its stage has also welcomed Broadway Across America musicals, the JazzSLC series, and even hosted icons like Mikhail Baryshnikov and choreographer Mark Morris in 1993. During the 2002 Winter Olympics, the theatre played a significant role in the Arts Festival, offering a stage for various performances celebrating global culture.

Managed by the Salt Lake County Center for the Arts, the Capitol Theatre has seen extensive renovations aimed at preserving its historic charm while upgrading its amenities. A major renovation in 2013 added the Jessie Eccles Quinney Ballet Centre, expanding the lobby and creating new rehearsal spaces. In 2019, a six-month project revitalized the auditorium, introducing ADA-compliant seating, a state-of-the-art sound system, and restoring the original terra cotta roof façade. These enhancements ensure that the Capitol Theatre remains a vibrant cultural hub in Salt Lake City, honoring its rich history while serving as a premier venue for the arts community.