Fallen Empires: Lost Theatres of Edmonton 1881-1914

by John Orrell

Fallen Empires --part of NeWest Press's Landmark Edition Series--traces the development of Edmonton' s theatre scene from its humble beginnings in meeting halls in 1881 to the flourishing theatre scene of 1914, where live drama and vaudeville acts were in high demand. Author John Orrell describes in exquisite detail the construction and appearance of these early theatres, as well as the performances which took place there, and the reaction of theatre reviewers. Fallen Empires charts the rise and fall of great theatres such as the Pantages and the second Empire Theatre, as well as lesser known ones, like Robertson Hall and Thistle Arena, which were no less key to the development of Edmonton's arts culture. Orrell describes the fates of these early theatres, many of which were destroyed by fire or pulled down to make way for cinema houses. The only book of its kind, Fallen Empires brings Edmonton's past theatres to life--preserving a vital part of Edmonton's history. This new edition has an introduction by Diane Bessai, and an updated biography by Wendy Orrell.

224 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2007

Reviews

[darrin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really good read for the history of the theatre in Edmonton as well as the history of Edmonton itself in the early years outside the fort.