When reminiscing about Pretoria’s iconic architectural gems, the Capitol Theatre in Church Square often emerges as a central figure in the city’s rich tapestry of cultural landmarks. It was a theatrical destination where live performances brought diverse audiences together. This article traces the theatre's journey from its illustrious days of grandeur to its eventual repurposing.
Erected in 1931 on the former grounds of the President Theatre, the Capitol Theatre distinguished itself as one of South Africa's pioneering atmospheric theaters. Designed in the lavish Italian Renaissance style by the visionary architect, P. Rogers Cooke, it radiated an aura of magnificence that was hard to replicate.
With a seating capacity surpassing 2240, the Capitol Theatre's grandeur was formally introduced to the public by the then-Prime Minister of the Union Of South Africa, General J.B.M Hertzog, on 5th September 1931.
Walking into the Capitol Theatre was akin to stepping into an Italian renaissance dream. The entrance foyer, an architectural feat in itself, together with the grand foyer, spanned over 200 feet in length, presenting patrons with an immediate sense of spaciousness and luxury.
The interiors were adorned with details reminiscent of the finest European theaters. From the grand staircases leading to the spacious promenade for intermissions, to the mesmerizing Wurlitzer organ set behind ornate latticed screens, every corner spoke of meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Beyond aesthetic splendor, the Capitol was also lauded for its commitment to cleanliness and hygiene. A cutting-edge multiple-turbine exhaust cleaning system, equivalent in power to 28 regular vacuum cleaners, ensured a pristine environment. Special aluminum tubes catered specifically to the meticulous cleaning of chairs and curtains. Such advanced measures highlighted the Capitol's forward-thinking approach, considering the health and comfort of its patrons paramount.
However, as with many grand structures of the past, the Capitol Theatre faced the winds of change. On 26th October 1974, its curtains were drawn for the last time. The building, which once resonated with applause and echoed with theatrical performances, was later repurposed into a parking garage by the Pretoria City Council.
While the Capitol Theatre's physical structure might have been altered, its legacy remains intact. It stands as a testament to an era when theater was not just a pastime but a cultural phenomenon. For many Pretorians and theater enthusiasts globally, the Capitol Theatre in Church Square continues to live on as a symbol of South Africa's rich theatrical heritage.