Toronto's Historical Plaques
Learn a little of Toronto's history as told through its plaques.
Royal Alexandra Theatre
Two historic plaques can be seen in the entranceway to this 100 year old theatre (as of 2007) at 260 King Street West. One, a 2007 Heritage Toronto plaque, has this to say:
A vital part of Toronto's cultural history, the Royal Alexandra is one of North America's oldest, continuously operating theatres. An early work of Toronto architect John M. Lyle, the theatre was financed by a consortium headed by "Toronto's youngest millionaire", Cawthra Mulock. It was built in a prestigious neighbourhood, opposite the Lieutenant-Governor's residence (later demolished) and on the former property of Upper Canada College, and was designed in the Beaux-Arts style. Granted royal title in honour of Queen Alexandra, consort of King Edward VII, the theatre brought to Toronto touring productions from London and New York and internationally revered performers. In decline by the 1950s along with the surrounding neighbourhood, the Royal Alexandra Theatre was courageously rescued from demolition in 1963 by Toronto entrepreneur "Honest" Ed Mirvish, Under the direction of Ed and son David Mirvish, the fully restored "Royal Alex" sparked the rejuvenation of the area and the growth of Toronto's entertainment district.
Location Co-ordinates: 43.647155 -79.387475
Photo by Alan L Brown - May 2008
The other is an Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque which has this to say:
Constructed in 1906-1907, this theatre is an intimate but lavish version of the traditional 19th century theatre, with two balconies as well as side boxes. John M. Lyle (1872-1945), one of Canada's most distinguished architects of the 20th century, designed the Royal Alexandra Theatre following the Beaux-Arts style, thus providing an elegant setting for Toronto's sophisticated theatrical and musical events. Since its rescue and rejuvenation by Ed Mirvish in 1963, when it was to be demolished for a parking lot, this theatre again plays a central role in the social and cultural life of the city.
Photo by Alan L Brown - September 2006
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