The Yale Theater in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is a historic theater that has been a cornerstone of the city's arts and entertainment scene for decades. Built in 1924, the theater was originally designed as a vaudeville house and movie palace, featuring a unique blend of Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco architectural styles. The Yale Theater's rich history and stunning architecture have made it a beloved landmark in Oklahoma City, attracting visitors from all over the world.
History of the Yale Theater
The Yale Theater was constructed during the 1920s, a time of great cultural and economic growth in Oklahoma City. The theater was designed by the architectural firm of Hawk & Parr, which was known for its work on numerous other theaters and buildings in the region. The Yale Theater’s original design featured a large auditorium with a seating capacity of over 1,000, as well as a stage and orchestra pit. The theater’s exterior was adorned with intricate terra cotta details, including ornate arches, columns, and balconies.
Restoration and Renovation
In the 1980s, the Yale Theater underwent a major restoration and renovation project, which aimed to preserve the theater’s historic integrity while also updating its facilities and equipment. The project included the restoration of the theater’s original plaster work, the repair of its ornate terra cotta exterior, and the installation of new seating, lighting, and sound systems. The renovation also added a new stage house and expanded the theater’s backstage areas, allowing for more complex and ambitious productions.
| Year | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1924 | Construction | The Yale Theater was built as a vaudeville house and movie palace |
| 1980s | Restoration | The theater underwent a major restoration and renovation project |
| 2000s | Expansion | The theater expanded its stage house and backstage areas |
Technical Specifications
The Yale Theater features a range of technical specifications that make it an ideal venue for a variety of performances and events. The theater’s auditorium has a seating capacity of 747, with 477 seats in the orchestra level and 270 seats in the balcony. The stage is equipped with a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, including a digital audio workstation and a lighting control console. The theater also features a fly system with 25 lines, allowing for complex scenery changes and special effects.
Performance Schedule
The Yale Theater hosts a diverse range of performances and events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, musicals, and dance productions. The theater is home to several resident companies, including the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and the Oklahoma City Ballet. The theater also presents a variety of touring productions, including Broadway shows and national concert tours.
- Concerts: The Yale Theater hosts a range of concerts, from classical music to rock and pop
- Plays and Musicals: The theater presents a variety of plays and musicals, including productions by resident companies and touring companies
- Dance Productions: The theater hosts a range of dance productions, including ballet, modern, and contemporary dance
What is the seating capacity of the Yale Theater?
+The Yale Theater has a seating capacity of 747, with 477 seats in the orchestra level and 270 seats in the balcony.
What types of performances does the Yale Theater host?
+The Yale Theater hosts a diverse range of performances and events, including concerts, plays, musicals, and dance productions.
The Yale Theater is a unique and historic venue that offers a range of cultural and entertainment experiences. With its stunning architecture, state-of-the-art technical specifications, and diverse range of performances, the theater is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting Oklahoma City, the Yale Theater is sure to impress and inspire.
