The Danforth Music Hall

On a summer evening in 1919, the air buzzed with excitement along Danforth Avenue. Toronto’s newest gem, Allen’s Danforth Theatre, was about to premiere its first film. The Danforth Music Hall, as it’s known today, began its life as “Canada’s First Super-Suburban Photoplay Palace”. Originally designed as a movie theatre, the Danforth Music Hall’s ornate interior reflects its grand beginnings. The Allen brothers, Jules and Jay, envisioned a space that prioritized comfort and artistry, a departure from the heavily ornamented theatres of that era. The exterior, with its Flemish bond brickwork, opal glass windows, and a marquee of chains, still echoes this early elegance. The Danforth Music Hall wasn’t always a music venue. After its time as Allen’s Danforth, it became the Century Theatre under Famous Players. Later, it transformed into the Titania Theatre, a hub for Greek-language films. The building eventually embraced its destiny as a music hall in the late 1970s. However, years of wear and tear took their toll. The Danforth Music Hall faced numerous challenges, including a notorious leaky roof. It eventually closed in 2004. A year and a half later, the Danforth Music Hall was reborn, thanks to new owners who invested in renovations. This included a much-needed new sound system. Even today, a unique feature remains from the theatre’s past. The sloped floor, designed to give moviegoers optimal viewing angles, now provides concertgoers with a similar advantage. This allows those standing further back to easily see the stage. The Danforth Music Hall has seen a resurgence in recent years. Popular bands now choose it over other venues like the Sound Academy or the Opera House. It has become a beloved venue, offering an intimate concert experience with a capacity of 1,500. From its early days as a movie palace to its current status as a music haven, the Danforth Music Hall has stood as a witness to changing times and evolving entertainment.