One of the venerable entertainment sites in Minneapolis, the Orpheum Theatre first featured vaudeville acts in 1921. Originally called the Hennepin, the theatre was converted to a movie house in later years. More than 2,600 audience members can be accommodated in this renovated structure (approximately 1500 on the main floor and an additional 1100 seats in a three-level balcony).
The Marx Brothers were among the first performers to grace the Orpheum/Hennepin stage. Historical records show that more than 70,000 people attended performances in the first week of operation. But that was just the beginning for this theatre. The Orpheum was a regular stop for such seminal vaudeville acts as Jack Benny, George Burns and Gracie Allen.
As with many beautiful venues, the Orpheum was neglected for several years, as modern suburban movie theatres became the standard location for an evening out. The Minneapolis Community Development Agency bought the Orpheum from singer Bob Dylan and his brother in 1988. The brothers owned the theatre for four years. Renovation saved the Orpheum in 1994, with a major extension of the stage so that more elaborate Broadway productions could be accommodated.
Those with a strong interest in architecture will enjoy the colors that match the original design, the art deco marquee and the six Pompeiian friezes long hidden by curtains and a false wall. Visitors are often in awe of the brass and crystal chandelier, as well as with the domed ceiling (30,000 leaves of silver). The theatre has staged several Broadway musicals since the restoration, including some world premieres.
