Orpheum Photo Tour
Historic Mezzanine Lobby
Inspired by the Italian Davanzati Palace, this colorful and airy room features glazed wood paneling and faux stone upper walls. The ceiling is richly polychromed with panels of aqua and gold with a stenciled blue pattern. Glazed doors lead to the Balcony of the Dons overlooking the plaza.
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Audience Chamber at Balcony Level
Vines hanging from an unseen trellis are framed by arched openings in the rear wall. Above the arches is a clay tile roof. The domed ceiling becomes a sky for celestial effects of projected clouds and stars. A sunset is simulated by the colored cove lights. The 300 seats in the balcony are original.
Room of the Young Moderns
Designed to entice young patrons, this space was executed in a contemporaneous “moderne” style. Its shallow dome is painted blue with gold highlights. The wall panels feature aluminum leaf glazed an intense blue-green and medallions depicting amorous young couples. The carpet medallion incorporates motifs borrowed from the original design of the Orpheum.
Octagonal Tower Room
Theatre offices originally occupied the building’s second floor corner where open space above the lobby now exists. A lofty tower room was created during renovation by capturing unused attic space.
Phoenix Staircase
Decorated with Phoenix birds, cherubs and starbursts, this staircase is illustrative of the rich and complex decorative techniques employed in the Orpheum’s restoration. Multiple layers of glazing and gold or aluminum leafing were applied to the cast plaster details such as those found on the staircase ceiling, curved walls and pillars.
Lower Lobby
Just as in 1929, the Orpheum’s lower level features a small lobby area and amenities for patrons. The fireplace has been replicated based on the original design. Illuminated cases on the south wall display show-posters from the Orpheum’s collection, documenting the great legacy of performing arts at this landmark theatre.
