The Princess Theatre, Edmonton’s oldest cinema, boasts a rich and dynamic history. Over the years, the theatre saw several ownership changes and a journey of evolution. From its inception as a premier entertainment venue to its transformations, The Princess remained a cultural gem. Read more about its creation and development on edmonton-trend.
Founding of The Princess Theatre
The building’s design began in 1914 under Edmonton architects Wilson and Herrald. It was the first building in Western Canada to feature a marble façade. In addition to the theatre, it housed commercial and residential spaces. Construction cost $75,000.
The Princess officially opened on March 8, 1915, as a single-screen theatre with a seating capacity of 660. It received rave reviews from the public. The theatre featured cutting-edge amenities, including the first electric ticket machine in the foyer, two advanced projectors, an electric water cooler, and the largest stage for live performances at the time.
Initially named “McKernan Block,” the theatre was built by developer John McKernan, who owned it in 1915. The Edmonton Journal praised the building’s quality, highlighting its marble façade, brass mirrors, and intricate gold-leaf decorations.
The Theatre During World War I
World War I impacted theatre revenues, but rental income from commercial spaces kept the venue afloat. In 1919, the McKernan family leased the theatre to Alexander Entwistle, who managed several vaudeville houses and cinemas on Jasper Avenue.
By 1929, the competition from Capitol Theatre, which began screening “talkies,” reduced The Princess’s audience. In 1931, The Princess upgraded its systems to enable sound film screenings.
Decline and Revival of The Princess Theatre
In 1958, television gained dominance as a preferred entertainment medium, leading to the theatre’s closure. McKernan sold the property, and the space was repurposed. The theatre’s entrance was converted into storefronts, and the performance hall became a pawn shop. The upper floors housed a photography studio and apartments.
In 1970, the venue was renamed “Klondike” by Town Cinema Limited. The theatre transitioned to screening films instead of hosting live performances. During this period, the cinema faced legal issues for showing explicit films.
In 1977, the Old Strathcona Foundation leased the building, repurposing it as a repertory theatre, which increased its popularity. By 1982, the foundation purchased the building and renovated it, installing 400 plush seats to enhance the viewing experience.
Challenges and Renovations
Despite its initial success, the theatre faced declining revenues by the mid-1990s due to the rising popularity of television. In 1996, the Brar family from Calgary, owners of the Plaza Theatre, purchased The Klondike. After 18 months, they sold it to Red Lantern Theatres, which undertook major renovations. A new basement theatre with 100 seats and a concession area was added.
In January 2016, Mike Brar regained ownership of the theatre. Today, as one of South Edmonton’s few remaining historic theatres, The Princess continues to shine with its architectural grandeur and legacy as a cherished entertainment venue.
