Orpheum Theatre, Oakland Travel Guide

The Orpheum Theatre stands as a testament to San Francisco's vibrant cultural history. Originally named the Pantages Theatre, it opened in 1926 as part of Alexander Pantages' vaudeville circuit. Designed by architect B. Marcus Priteca, the theater's architecture is a blend of Beaux-Arts, featuring a facade inspired by a 12th-century French cathedral and an interior showcasing Spanish Gothic Revival style. The Orpheum's design includes a vaulted ceiling, ornate plasterwork, gold accents and chic moldings.In its early years, the Orpheum hosted a variety of vaudeville acts, including comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians. In 1929, it was renamed the Orpheum Theatre. In 1953, the theater was renovated to present Cinerama. After a period of decline, the theater was rescued and renovated in the late 1960s. A $20 million renovation was completed in 1998 to modernize the venue for large-scale Broadway productions. The first production after the renovation was Show Boat.The Orpheum has hosted numerous pre-Broadway and Broadway shows, including Wicked, which ran for two years. The Grateful Dead also performed here in July 1976. Today, the Orpheum Theatre continues to host touring Broadway productions and remains a designated San Francisco landmark.