The Regent Theatre was a cherished venue for the residents of Ottawa throughout the 20th century. It was not just a theatre that hosted daily performances; it was also the first cinema in Canada’s capital to screen a film with sound. Read more on ottawa-trend.com.
The History of Ottawa’s Old Regent Theatre
The history of this unique cultural institution in Ottawa began in 1915. The Regent Theatre was part of the well-known 20th-century commercial cinema network, “Allen Theatres.” Located in the heart of Ottawa, on Bank Street, it quickly became a major entertainment hub.
During the first half of the 20th century, the Regent was one of the most popular theatres in Ottawa. Hundreds of residents visited it daily due to its convenient location. The theatre had a spacious auditorium, while its lobby was relatively small, featuring vending machines for refreshments. Above the entrance, a large marquee extended over the sidewalk, making the theatre easily recognizable. The theatre’s defining feature, however, was its balcony boxes, which were designed by the renowned 20th-century architect Thomas Lamb.
Another distinctive aspect of the Regent Theatre was its stunning decor. Like many grand theatres of the early 20th century, its interior was adorned with gilded plasterwork, intricate decorative details, grand columns, numerous mirrors, and magnificent crystal chandeliers. These embellishments gave the Regent a regal and luxurious appearance. In addition to the opulent main areas, even the theatre’s restrooms were elegantly designed.
Moreover, the Regent Theatre housed an impressive art gallery featuring exclusively oil paintings.
The key characteristics of the Regent Theatre in early 20th-century Ottawa were its coziness, comfort, grandeur, and cleanliness. Residents frequented the venue not only for theatrical performances but also for film screenings accompanied by a live orchestra.
A Special Theatre in the Capital
The Regent was one of Ottawa’s most beloved theatres, and for good reason. Besides its breathtaking interior, it offered a comfortable experience for visitors. It hosted top-tier stage performances and showcased the most popular films. Additionally, Disney cartoons were screened before children’s movie presentations.
The Regent was also known for premiering films earlier than any other Canadian cinema.
In 1928, it became one of the first cultural venues in Canada to screen films with synchronized sound. The first sound film screening at the Regent took place in December 1928 during an exclusive invitation-only event.
The event’s program began with newsreels covering the signing of the Kellogg-Briand Pact, followed by a welcome speech from the U.S. Ambassador to France. Another news segment featured a speech by the Prince of Wales. After the newsreels, the audience watched a short film titled “The Cabin,” set in Siberia, followed by the comedy short “Family Picnic.” The event concluded with the premiere of the 1928 feature film Street Angel.
Once sound films became a regular feature at the Regent Theatre, its popularity soared. The theatre thrived as a profitable enterprise, continuously screening films and hosting live performances. However, as time passed, the Regent began to show signs of aging. Additionally, Ottawa underwent an urban renewal initiative that called for the expansion and beautification of the city. As a result, in 1972, Lady and the Tramp was the last film ever screened at the Regent Theatre. Shortly thereafter, the theatre was permanently closed, the building was sealed off, and eventually, it was demolished.
