Originally built for Seattle’s Gilded Age elite, the Moore Theatre stands as a testament to time. Did you know it’s Seattle’s oldest active theater? It opened its doors on December 28, 1907.
James A. Moore, a real estate developer, envisioned this lavish social venue. Architect E. W. Houghton brought Moore’s vision to life. The Moore Theatre was ready just in time for the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. Though the expo was delayed to 1909, the Moore stood ready to entertain tourists. The adjoining Moore Hotel complemented the theater. Together, they aimed to accommodate exposition visitors.
Initially, John Cort managed the Moore Theatre. Later, he founded a major Broadway venue in New York. Programming thrived through the 1930s. But by the 1970s, the theater faced challenges. Entertainment evolved, and survival became difficult for the Moore.
In 1974, the Moore Theatre and Hotel earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. A year later, Dan Ireland and Darryl MacDonald took over. They renamed it the Moore Egyptian. The “Egyptian” was added to connect it to other Egyptian Theaters. This was done to boost its appeal. Dennis Nyback served as the projectionist. The Moore Egyptian became the birthplace of the Seattle International Film Festival in 1976.
However, in 1981, the owners relocated, taking the “Egyptian” name. The Moore has since showcased touring musicians and theatrical productions. The Moore Theatre now seats about 1800 people.
The Moore also reflects Seattle’s history of segregation. A “colored entrance” remains visible. It once led Black audience members to the balcony. This served as a stark reminder of past inequalities.
Constructed with reinforced concrete, the Moore features a white ceramic tile and terra-cotta facade. Its architecture blends Byzantine and Italianate styles. An enormous steel girder supports the balcony without columns. The staging area was the largest in Seattle at the time. The Moore boasted a state-of-the-art electrical system. Originally, it seated 2,436 people. The Moore also had innovative architecture and luxurious decor.
Notably, the upper balcony was initially racially segregated. It had separate entrances. A separate staircase still connects it to the front door’s interior.
Many famous performances have graced the Moore’s stage. The Who’s rock opera “Tommy” debuted as a full stage production in 1971. Bette Midler played the Acid Queen. Soundgarden’s “Fopp” EP was recorded here in 1988. Alice in Chains filmed “Live Facelift” in 1990. Pearl Jam’s “Even Flow” video features footage from a 1992 concert at the Moore. Mad Season’s “Live at The Moore” was filmed in 1995. Queensrÿche filmed “Mindcrime at the Moore” and “Live Evolution” here.
In essence, the Moore Theatre is more than just a venue. It embodies Seattle’s cultural evolution. It’s a place where history resonates. Music echoes. Memories linger. As you leave the Moore, remember the countless stories that have unfolded within these walls.