Why We Love The Monarch Theatre (Still.)
Yes, still! Even as it enters it’s 115th year standing. To put that into perspective…
Original Photo from 1914, provided by Esplanade Archives
That’s older than the microwave.
That’s older than home television sets.
That’s older than the modern zipper!
To say it’s special is an understatement. And if you grew up in The Hat, you know the Monarch isn’t just about what’s playing on the screen. It’s about lining up out the front doors for a good show, the high-back seats that feel like they’ve seen a century of stories, and the fact that you can still get a ticket, popcorn, and a drink for less than a crisp $20 bill.
It’s survived everything the last 115 years could throw at it, and thanks to the local Rotary Club, the Monarch 1911 Society, a long list of generous donors, and a massive amount of volunteer grit, the lights are staying on. Earlier this year you may have noticed there was a short closure as hundreds of volunteer hours were spent reconstructing, repairing, and expanding the stage. After the stage repair-the roof was refinished. And if you drive down 2nd street you’ll notice just one more final piece is on its way - a brand new sign! Between the newly painted facade, tile, roof, and coming sign it makes us hopeful that the Monarch will still be playing films for the next 100 years.
If these walls could talk…
A Big Night for Local Stories
If you’re familiar with the documentary film Your Cinema Needs You (2023) created by local Medicine Hatter, Luke Fandrich, (Editing Luke) you’ll know it sold out over a dozen times and was well loved and received by the community. This special project highlighted the history and future of the Monarch and made viewers re-fall-in-love with the old theatre.
Now, we’re excited to share that Luke is bringing the story of Medalta, "Clay, Creativity, & the Comeback" to the big screen. When Your Cinema Needs You premiered most locals did not understand the importance of the Monarch, and similarly… most don’t know how Medalta was saved. It wasn’t some big government project - it was a group of locals in the '70s who refused to let our clay district be bulldozed. This documentary is an absolute must see!
Catch the Premiere
Dates: April 30, May 1, & May 2
Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM
The Deal: It’s general admission, so if you’ve got a "favourite seat” and a need for popcorn… you’ll want to get there early.
Circa 1944
Supporting the Marquee
Supporting the Monarch right now means more than just seeing a movie. Between the new roof and the exterior tile work, every ticket helps ensure this place is still around for years to come.
Whether you’re a regular Monarch go-er, or you haven’t been inside since you were a kid, support for a local filmmaker and one of our favourite downtown landmarks is imperative to our sunny community.
Check out what else is coming up: themonarchtheatre.ca
And of course:
Follow The Monarch Threatre on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Luke Fandrich on Instagram and Facebook.
Coming Up at The Monarch
RISE UP - A Documentary on Resilience and Rising Together | Tiger’s Away Playoff Games | Clay Creativity and The Comeback