Historic theatre in the Beaches a staple for theatrelovers

The Beaches neighbourhood has evolved greatly over the years, but one thing that has been consistent through the last century is the love for The Fox Theatre.

The theatre was built in 1914, originally named the Prince Edward Theatre after Prince Edward the Eighth, and was renamed The Fox Theatre in 1936.

“I’m a big fan of the Fox Theatre. I live across the street and I am a filmmaker so it’s very accessible for me. It’s one of my favorite theatres in the city,” said one community member.

Daniel Demois, co-owner of The Fox Theatre, said for people who live in the area, they feel a lot of ownership over the Fox.

“People who tend to come to The Fox are in the immediate vicinity. Just a matter of sticking it out the fact that it’s been there since 1914. People in the east end know it,” explained Demois. “There really aren’t that many indie theatres as there used to be unfortunately and I think by being one of the ones that’s lasted this long I think it continues to find a new audience.”

The first film that played at The Fox was The Squaw Man, a 1914 American Silent Western directed by Cecil B. Demille and Oscar C. Apfel.

“The atmosphere and the feel of it is great and it brings back memories from when I was about that big where the movie theatre used to be a place where we were babysat. Our parents would do the rounds and do their errands and drop us off here,” said another resident.

The theatre now plays new releases like Infinity Pool by Canadian director Brandon Cronenberg among others. It also shows the classics, indie films, and hosts rental screenings and film festivals in The Beaches.

“One of the more exciting things we do is a high tea series that our audience really loves. We play costume period drama and we get people to dress up and we have tea and scones,” added Demois.

Aside from the events, it’s the personal touch that makes the difference. Theatregoers say knowing the staff and the staff knowing them has created a small community that has kept the lights on in the historic theatre.

“The first time I came to The Fox was in 1956. It’s an institution in the Beaches, the ambiance the atmosphere and the history. You know you’ve been going somewhere since you were 10 it’s very special and it still has a character and it’s convenient,” said a long-time Fox attendee.

“I think because it’s one of the older theatres one of the original theatres. You still have those plush seats and that old theatre feel. It’s also better value for your money and friendlier staff.”

If you’d like more information about the theatre or a link to their schedule, you can find more information by heading to their website.