The Capitol Theatre is an iconic building located in the heart of Singapore's Civic District. Built in 1930 to plans by British architects Keys and Dowdeswell, it was one of the most important theatres in Singapore, serving as a cultural hub and social gathering place for the city's residents. Movie stars such as Charlie Chaplin and Ava Gardner visited the Capitol Theatre when promoting their films in Singapore. The theatre was renovated between 2011 and 2015.
The Capitol building features an iconic concave façade facing the junction of Stamford Road and North Bridge Road.
Capitol Theatre facade at Stamford Road and North Bridge Road
Capitol Theatre - colonnade
Capitol Theatre - facade
The building is a wonderful example of Art Deco design with geometric shapes and bold use of color and ornamentation.
art deco doors
Capitol Theatre - entrance
Capitol Theatre - entrance
While the theatre had an initial seating capacity of over 1500, it has now been reduced to slightly below 1000. It is the first venue in Southeast Asia to feature a rotational floor system allowing to adapt the seating configuration to the event.
Capitol Theatre - auditorium
Capitol Theatre - stage
The vault roof with its circular dome is decorated with the twelve zodiac signs. During the 2011-2015 renovations, the paintings had to be recreated. Interestingly in the 1930s, the roof could be opened to increase the air circulation.
Capitol Theatre - ceiling
You may also like