Ohio Theatre in Columbus: A Model Prototype For Historical Rejuvenation

In 1928, on the site of the former City Hall, theatrical architect Thomas W. Lamb designed the Ohio Theatre in Columbus, Ohio. It would become considered his most successful project. His intention became to transport patrons from their dreary daily lives into a luxurious fantasy environment. New York designer Anne Dornin created a theme for each individual room. The theatre features extravagant lounge areas including smoking and telephone sections.

The Spanish Baroque architecture originally seated over 3,000 spectators and opened to the silent film The Divine Woman, starring Greta Garbo. An orchestra and Robert-Morton theatre organ accompanied the production. Variety show acts were also staged involved Milton Berle, Buddy Ebsen, Ginger Rogers and Jack Benny.

During its opening year, sound films were introduced effectively scaling down and eliminating live performances by 1933. Organist Roger Garrett continued his daily performances as the Mighty Morton with periodic appearances by actresses including Judy Garland and Jean Harlow.

During World War II, film theatres enjoyed a brisk patronage, adding late night showings for war plant shift workers. War bonds were heavily promoted. Post-World War II, the introduction of television entertainment and migration to the suburbs decreased patronage. During the 1950s, a stagehand met his death during a performance and is rumored to have remained in spirit on the premises.

By the 1960s, attendance had dropped significantly and on February 24, 1969, the theatre closed. Plans for a commercial office tower on the site and the existing Grand Theatre threatened its continued existence. Fundraising efforts saved the doomed project from extinction. Over the next decade, the theatre would become restored and modernized. In the 1980s, dressing rooms and a loading dock was added to accommodate large touring Broadway musicals.

The Ohio Theatre renovation became the prototype for former historical movie palaces to become converted into multi-use performing arts centers. It is currently the home of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, BalletMet, Broadway Series, Opera Columbus and CAPA Summer Film Series.