A Historic and Magnificent Architectural Marvel
Designed by architect John Lyle, the Royal Alexandra Theatre is not only a venue for some of the most touching productions put on in Toronto but also a site for elegant architecture, which contributes to one’s experience of watching a performance.
Popularly known as the “Royal Alex” or “the Alex”, it’s one of the oldest Toronto theatre venues, but that’s part of its charisma. Being a historical monument, the theatre adds a sense of authenticity to the productions by virtue of belonging to another era.
Once inside the theatre, you will be fascinated by its beaux-arts style interior featuring imported marble, hand-carved cherry-wood and walnut, fine silks and velvets, gilded plaster, gold brocade and crystal chandeliers.
When completed, it was the first of its kind, steel-framed structure in Canada, featuring cantilevered balconies, with no internal pillars to offer an unobstructed view from every corner of the theatre.
Since its opening in 1907, the theater has hosted fantastic performance by legends like Katherine Cornell, Helen Hayes, Orson Welles, John and Ethel Barrymore, Fred and Adele Astaire, Harry Lauder, Deborah Kerr, Edith Piaf and Paul Robeson.
In 1962, Ed Mirvish purchased the Royal Alexandra theatre and closed it for one year for extensive restoration and renovation. The theatre re-opened in 1963 after being restored to the splendour of its early age.
Recognizing the historic significance of the “Royal Alex”, the theatre was dubbed as a National Historic Monument of Canada on its 80th anniversary.
Owned and operated by Mirvish Productions, the Royal Alexandra theatre is a heart of Toronto Theater scene for more than a century.
Quick links: Jump to…
Royal Alexandra Theatre Shows and Tickets
I Love Lucy Live on Stage is a new musical stage show based on iconic and most popular TV program in American television history. If you’re a Lucy fan, this is the musical you definitely won’t want to miss. The hilarious theatrical treat will revive your nostalgic memories of 1950s!
Dates: Begins October 15, 2020
Hotels near Royal Alexandra Theatre
Whether you’re looking for deluxe or budget hotels near “Royal Alex”, you’ll find numerous top-notch hotels located within short walking distance from the theatre.
Here is a list of excellent, specially selected hotels near the theatre, not in any specific order.
The Ritz-Carlton Toronto – 5 Star Ultra-luxury
181 Wellington Street West, Toronto
Compare rates and read reviews
Hotel Le Germain – 4 Star Luxury Boutique
30 Mercer St, Toronto
Shangri-La Hotel Toronto – 5 Star Ultra-Luxury
188 University Avenue, Toronto
Find the best deal and compare prices
Residence Inn by Marriott – 3 Star Budget
255 Wellington Street West, Toronto
InterContinental Toronto Centre – 4 Star Luxury
225 Front Street West, Toronto
SoHo Metropolitan Hotel – 4 Star Luxury Boutique
318 Wellington Street West, Toronto
Hilton Toronto – 4 Star Luxury
92 Peter Street, Toronto
Royal Alexandra Theatre – Travel Information
Location: 260 King Street West, Toronto, M5V 1H9
Driving Directions:
Please visit www.mirvish.com for more information.