Orpheum Theatre, Los Angeles

The Orpheum Theatre, located in Downtown Los Angeles, opened its doors on February 15, 1926. It was the fourth and final venue in Los Angeles associated with the Orpheum vaudeville circuit. Following a significant $3 million renovation project that commenced in 1989, it stands as the most meticulously restored among the historic movie palaces in the city.

The Orpheum boasts an elegant Beaux Arts facade, designed by renowned movie theater architect G. Albert Lansburgh. Inside, it houses a Mighty Wurlitzer organ, which was installed in 1928 and is one of only three pipe organs still in existence in Southern California.

The Orpheum theaters derive their name from the Greek mythological figure, Orpheus. Shortly after its opening, the venue became a favored stage for performances by prominent entertainers such as burlesque star Sally Rand, the Marx Brothers, Will Rogers, Judy Garland (performing with her family under the name Frances "Baby" Gumm), and comedian Jack Benny. It also hosted legendary jazz artists like Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, and Duke Ellington. Vaudeville acts continued to grace the Orpheum's stage as late as 1950.

During the 1960s, the theater transitioned into a venue for rock 'n' roll concerts, featuring iconic performers like Little Richard, Aretha Franklin, and Little Stevie Wonder. Today, the meticulously restored Orpheum Theatre serves as a venue for live concerts, movie premieres, and location shoots. It has hosted various events, including a performance by the love metal band HIM for their live CD/DVD album "Digital Versatile Doom" and the live broadcast of the 2010 Streamy Awards.

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Visitor7.

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Sight Name: Orpheum Theatre
Sight Location: Los Angeles, USA (See walking tours in Los Angeles)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

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