For many couples, the holidays are about surprise marriage proposals. December is the most popular time of the year to get engaged, thanks to festive decorations, champagne and sparkly lights everywhere—plus plenty of gatherings with family and friends. Consequently, January is the month for wedding planning which often means time to attend numerous wedding shows, interview caterers and choose the venue. One of the fantastic venues for a wedding or any other formal event, is The Eglinton Grand in Toronto’s Forest Hill neighbourhood.
Located at 400 Eglinton Avenue West, just west of Avenue Road, The Eglinton Grand is a historic landmark built in 1936 and considered one of the best examples of the Art Deco-style in Canadian theatre design. In fact, it won the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada bronze medal. The idea of a stand-alone theatre was introduced in early 1930’s by Agostino Arrigo Sr., an Italian immigrant. With the help of Famous Players and Kaplan & Sprachman, an established architecture firm, the construction of a first-of-its-kind theatre was underway.
Photo courtesy of The Eglinton Grand
Once completed in 1936, The Eglinton Theatre was considered a success and described by the media as the “Show Place of Toronto”. Its design stunned with grand art-deco interior adorned with vibrant colours, striking lighting and chandeliers, hand-carved statues and hand-made murals etched in glass. When the theatre open its doors for the very first time, people from all over of Toronto lined up for the screening of King of Burlesque (starring Jack Oakie), to get a first glimpse of this new Toronto theatre.
As years went by, Torontonians visited The Eglinton Theatre to watch some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters including The Sound of Music, Star Wars and Titanic, to name a few. But as the theatre business evolved through the years, and larger multiplex theatres were becoming increasingly popular, The Eglinton Theatre began to lose the battle against its megaplex competitors and eventually closed its doors in the spring of 2002.
After operating as a cinema for 67 years, the theatre was converted to an event venue, now The Eglinton Grand. The historic landmark has been restored to its original grandeur by award winning designers, Munge/Leung Design Associates, and transformed from a movie house into a special events and entertainment venue. Preserving the rich history and old Hollywood elegance, The Eglinton Grand is a throw-back to the majestic style of the original 1930’s theatre.
Photo courtesy of The Eglinton Grand
Much of the art-deco style remains, but the space has been reconfigured for large and intimate gatherings such as weddings, corporate events and family celebrations. The Grand Ballroom is a lavish space that can accommodate up to 550 guests. The Gallery, accommodating up to 220 people and adorned with skylights and elegant lounge vibe is known for hosting ceremonies, but it’s also a perfect space for cocktails and socializing.
Photo courtesy of The Eglinton Grand
How wonderful that this historic gem of Forest Hill can still be used and appreciated by Torontonians. With the movie awards season in full swing, how fabulous would this venue be for a Old Hollywood inspired event? With glam touches such as a customized marquee outside, photos in the preserved ticket booth and a walk down the red carpet will make you and your guests feel like true Hollywood royalty.
The Eglinton Grand
400 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto
Tel. (416) 485-5900
Along with one of our neighbourhood faves like The Mad Bean Coffee House and The Key Gardner Beltline, The Eglinton Grand is yet another neighbourhood-defining spot to discover in Forest Hill. Can you imagine having this history-rich venue just minutes from your home? Check out this charming one bedroom suite offered for sale of $324,900 —> Mid-Century Bathurst Street Beauty in Forest Hill
~ the urbaneer team
Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000
earn your trust, then your business
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