Proctors Theatre

Proctors Theatre is a historic theater located in Schenectady, New York, designed by renowned architect Thomas W. Lamb and opened in 1926. The theater was built during the Roaring Twenties and features a unique blend of Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, similar to other notable theaters of the time, such as the Orpheum Theatre (Los Angeles) and the Palace Theatre (New York City). Proctors Theatre has hosted a wide range of performances over the years, including concerts by famous musicians like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Frank Sinatra, as well as productions by the New York City Ballet and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The theater has also been recognized for its historic significance, being listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of the Interior.

● History

The history of Proctors Theatre dates back to the early 20th century, when Frederick Proctor, a successful vaudeville entrepreneur, decided to build a new theater in Schenectady, New York. The theater was designed by Thomas W. Lamb, a prominent architect who had previously designed other notable theaters, such as the Cort Theatre and the Booth Theatre. Proctors Theatre was built during the Jazz Age and quickly became a popular venue for live performances, hosting acts like Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and the Ziegfeld Follies. The theater also featured a Mighty Wurlitzer organ, which was played by famous organists like Fats Waller and Eubie Blake. Over the years, Proctors Theatre has been owned and operated by various companies, including the Shubert Organization and the National Amusements chain.

● Architecture

The architecture of Proctors Theatre is a unique blend of Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, featuring a grand lobby with a sweeping staircase and a ornate ceiling. The theater's design was influenced by the works of famous architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan, and features a mix of ornamentation and streamlining. The theater's façade is adorned with intricate carvings and moldings, and features a large marquee that was restored in the 1990s. The theater's interior design was also influenced by the works of famous designers like Dorothy Draper and Elsa Schiaparelli, and features a mix of luxurious materials like velvet and mahogany. Proctors Theatre has been recognized for its historic architecture, being listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of the Interior.

● Performances

Proctors Theatre has hosted a wide range of performances over the years, including concerts by famous musicians like Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Bob Dylan. The theater has also featured productions by the New York City Opera and the American Ballet Theatre, as well as performances by famous comedians like Richard Pryor and George Carlin. In addition to live performances, Proctors Theatre has also hosted film screenings, including premieres of movies like The Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind. The theater has also been used as a venue for conventions and expos, hosting events like the Schenectady Comic-Con and the Capital District Gaming Convention. Proctors Theatre has also been recognized for its contributions to the arts, being awarded the National Medal of Arts by the National Endowment for the Arts.

● Restoration

In the 1990s, Proctors Theatre underwent a major restoration project, which aimed to restore the theater to its original grandeur. The project was led by the Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority and involved the restoration of the theater's façade, lobby, and auditorium. The project also included the installation of new seating and sound systems, as well as the restoration of the theater's historic Mighty Wurlitzer organ. The restoration project was recognized for its excellence, being awarded the Preservation Award by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The project was also supported by famous preservationists like Jane Jacobs and Robert Venturi, who recognized the importance of preserving historic buildings like Proctors Theatre.

● Notable Events

Proctors Theatre has hosted many notable events over the years, including performances by famous musicians like Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles. The theater has also featured productions by the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Moscow Ballet, as well as performances by famous comedians like Eddie Murphy and Chris Rock. In addition to live performances, Proctors Theatre has also hosted film screenings, including premieres of movies like The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. The theater has also been used as a venue for conventions and expos, hosting events like the Schenectady Comic-Con and the Capital District Gaming Convention. Proctors Theatre has also been recognized for its contributions to the community, being awarded the Key to the City by the City of Schenectady and the Certificate of Appreciation by the New York State Assembly.