Step into the captivating world of the Capitol Theatre Sydney. This isn’t just any theatre. It’s a living testament to Sydney’s vibrant history. The Capitol Theatre stands proudly at 3-15 Campbell Street Haymarket. It has entertained Sydneysiders for over a century.
Imagine the bustling Haymarket of the early 1800s. This very spot was once a marketplace. Early settlers used it for selling produce and hay. This area even got its name Haymarket from this activity. By the 1880s the area was bursting at the seams. The need for a bigger market was clear.
In 1893 the New Belmore Markets opened. George McRae designed it. Unfortunately the markets weren’t a financial success. Their location too far from Darling Harbour hampered their growth. The council needed a new plan. Enter Wirth Brothers.
In 1912 Wirth Brothers saw the potential. They leased the building for a circus and hippodrome. The Wirth Brothers Hippodrome opened in 1916. It featured dazzling circus acts elephants and seals. Vaudeville shows also entertained audiences. The Hippodrome was a popular attraction. Sadly it eventually closed due to financial challenges.
The building’s next chapter began in 1928. The Hippodrome was transformed into the Capitol Theatre. Henry Eli White and John Eberson designed the conversion. They created a stunning atmospheric auditorium. It resembled Eberson’s Riviera in Omaha Nebraska. The Capitol Theatre opened its doors to much fanfare.
The Capitol Theatre showcased “talkies” in 1929. The Great Depression hit hard. The Capitol closed in 1932. It reopened in 1933 showing lesser-known films. Over time parts of the theatre’s stunning interior were removed. This included the ornate decorations.
The Capitol Theatre’s fortunes changed again in 1972. Harry M Miller took over the lease. He staged the Australian premiere of Jesus Christ Superstar. More significant changes happened in the 1990s. Ipoh Garden Developments Pty Ltd restored the theatre. The Capitol Theatre now gleams in its original 1928 glory. It hosts world-class productions.
Today the Capitol Theatre stands as a symbol of Sydney’s resilience and creativity. It’s a stunning example of atmospheric theatre design. The Capitol Theatre welcomes audiences to experience its rich and varied history. It continues to enthrall audiences. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of the performing arts.