Mayfair Theatre preserved with heritage designation

City Council has approved the Mayfair Theatre’s designation as a property of cultural heritage value under the Ontario Heritage Act.

The theatre opened in 1932 during the heyday of the new “talking picture” theatres, and was the second Spanish-Revival-style atmospheric cinema in the city. It was built during a time of strong competition between movie palaces, when new independent theatres tried to differentiate themselves stylistically from other cinemas to attract business.

“The designation of the Mayfair Theatre under Part IV for the Ontario Heritage Act will ensure it cannot be torn down or altered without the permission of City Council,” said Capital ward Councillor Clive Doucet. “The Mayfair will remain an important landmark in our community, and hopefully, continue to contribute to Ottawa residents’ love of cinema and film.”

Located at 1074 Bank Street, the Mayfair Theatre is the city’s oldest surviving movie theatre and the last remaining of those built in Ottawa before the Second World War. It has a simple brick exterior, which harmonizes with the residential neighbourhood surrounding it. The interior features a Spanish-Revival-style atmospheric auditorium, which still features many of its original design elements. The auditorium exhibits a high degree of craftsmanship typical of the era, including a painted ceiling with ornate stone facades, faux balconies along the side walls which give the appearance of a Mediterranean plaza, wrought ironwork, and ornamental glass windows.

As a result of Council’s decision, the City will publish a notice of its intention to designate the property, and anyone wishing to object may do so within 30 days of publication. If there are objections, a Conservation Review Board hearing is scheduled to listen to these objections, and then report back to City Council. At that time, Council will decide either to uphold or withdraw the designation.

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