1919 – Former Allen Theatre, Bloor Street, Toronto, Canada

Allen’s Bloor Theatre was opened in 1919, and was taken over by Famous Players in 1923 along with most of the Allen chain, and became the Bloor Theatre. Now a nighclub and covered externally in graffiti.

“It further stands to their credit that the class of buildings they are erecting are designed architecturally to appeal to the better class of “movie” patrons. A typical example of their efforts in this direction is seen in the new Allen Theatre in the vicinity of Bloor and Bathurst streets, which was completed the early part of this year. In this theatre the aim has been to provide attractive surroundings, together with every factor which might contribute to safety, comfort and convenience.

The materials used in the construction of the building are mostly brick, tile and reinforced concrete, making it fireproof in character. A feature of the concrete design are the elliptical trusses which span the auditorium and the cantilever beams which extend from the front wall and form the support of the balcony, which seats some four hundred persons.

Altogether the general scheme is quite satisfying and pleasing. The exterior, which is carried out in tapestry brick and cut stone, is quiet in architectural detail and somewhat Italian. Dignified lines, effective in their’. simplicity, characterize the foyer and mezzanine and terminate in festoons of enriched detail interlacing’ the ellipse of the ceiling. Tn the auditorium, which represents a modern development in the Louis XVI. style, the plaster ornamentation is richly detailed and very effectively done. The dominating colors are ivory and old rose, with wall panels of this period. Perhaps the only criticism of the scheme lies in the lack of adornment of the proscenium arch, which could have been improved with further enrichment.

The theatre is equipped with an efficient heating and ventilating system, which regulates ~ the temperature of the auditorium and provides for a constant circulation of fresh air. The seating capacity of the house altogether is about one thousand, and exits are provided at both the sides and rear in addition to the main entrance.

The Allen interests have also established theatres in a number of other Canadian cities; and, with others being planned and built, will eventually own and control a chain of modern moving picture houses extending from coast to coast.”
Construction, May 1919

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