A image of a theatre from the outside

The Monarch Theatre

Step into the wonderful world of the Monarch Theatre, where history and movie magic collide! As the oldest operational, purpose-built movie theatre in Canada, every visit promises a journey through time and a celebration of cinematic wonder!

A poster image of a film
A poster image of a film
A poster image of a film
A poster image of an old film
A poster image of a film

About Us

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A image of a theatre from the outside
A group of people in front of the stage
A group of people inside a theatre
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A image of a theatre with people watching inside
A guy in front of the line of a counter
A group of people standing inside a well lit area
In the heart of Medicine Hat’s bustling downtown, the Monarch Theatre stands as a timeless testament to the golden age of cinema. Built in 1911, it proudly holds the title of Canada’s oldest purpose-built movie theatre, a beacon of innovation and community spirit.
For over a century, the Monarch has been a cherished venue where generations have gathered to be captivated by the magic of the silver screen. From the enchanting silent films accompanied by live orchestras to the groundbreaking ‘talkies,’ vibrant color films, and the expansive vistas of Cinemascope, the Monarch has evolved with the times, embracing the latest in digital film technology.
The 1990s brought the rise of large-scale multiplexes, casting a shadow over the Monarch’s popularity and leading to its temporary closure in 2007. Yet, the spirit of the community never wavered. In 2009, the City of Medicine Hat, alongside dedicated citizens, rallied to save this historic gem. The City Centre Development Agency acquired the theatre, and the Friends of the Monarch Society was born, dedicated to preserving and celebrating this unique cultural treasure.
In September 2016, the Monarch Theatre was honored as a Municipal Historic Resource, a testament to its enduring significance. The story didn’t end there. In November 2023, the Monarch 1911 Society, formed by Rotarians from the Saamis and Medicine Hat Rotary Clubs, took up the mantle, raising funds to purchase and restore the theatre. Their mission is clear: to breathe new life into this beloved landmark, ensuring it continues to inspire and entertain for generations to come.
The Monarch Theatre is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and the timeless allure of cinema. As it prepares to reopen its doors, it invites us all to step back in time and be part of its storied legacy.

Events

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DEC
14
Quick Dick McDick
07:00 PM
Monarch Theatre
A poster of the movie The Grinch
DEC
15
The Grinch
02:00 PM
Monarch Theatre
A poster for a Jake Vaadeland event
JAN
29
Jake Vaadeland & The Stugeon River Boys
07:30 PM
Monarch Theatre

Our Story

A black and white photo of an old theater entrance

1911

Constructed in Beaux-Arts-style

A black and white photo of an old theater entrance

1912

Beaux-Arts-style “Monarch” vertical sign attached on the north (front façade) most easterly side between the theatre building and the commercial storefront building (now east bay of the Monarch Theatre)

A photo of an old door handle

1930

Original movie screen replaced

A photo of an old door handle

1935

Front façade of west structural bay renovated to Streamline Moderne-style including the marquee

1935

Beaux-Arts-style “Monarch” vertical sign retained however, had been painted to white at some unknown time prior to the Steamline Moderne-style façade alterations.

1936

Installation of swamp cooler

1936-1941

Beaux-Arts-style “Monarch” vertical sign removed between these years

1956

Readograph neon “Monarch” vertical sign installed on north (front) façade above the marquee Pre-1984: Circular windows infilled on rear façade

1940-1941

Theatre expanded into rear of east structural bay and front façade of east structural bay renovated to match Streamline Moderne-style of west structural bay Circa 1950s: Donnacona panels installed

1986

New projection and sound equipment (Xevon lighting, Kelmar Amps and Altec speakers, new 14’x28’ screen) installed

1986

Seating reconfigured and reduced to 500 seats

1988

Art Deco (square) sconces removed, and theatre walls covered with burlap curtains

A quiet, empty street in a small town with a mix of older buildings and shops on both sides.

1993

Mac’s Cigar Shop closed in October and moved to 3rd Street SE

A quiet, empty street in a small town with a mix of older buildings and shops on both sides.

1995

Mac’s Cigar Store exterior storefront features (door, windows, and tiles) removed and stucco’s in mid-1995.

A quiet, empty street in a small town with a mix of older buildings and shops on both sides.

1993

New movie screens installed by King Cinema

A quiet, empty street in a small town with a mix of older buildings and shops on both sides.

1999

Plywood sheets glued to sanded hardwood floors and new seats installed – seating reduced from 500 to 410

A quiet, empty street in a small town with a mix of older buildings and shops on both sides.

1999

Art Deco (square) sconces removed, and the Façade painted, and marquee refurbished and paintedatre walls covered with burlap curtains

A photo inside a theatre

Circa 2010

Readograph neon “Monarch” vertical sign removed from the north (front) façade

A photo inside a theatre

2014

New digital projection equipment installed

2023

Purchased by the Monarch 1911 Society - a group of Rotarians from the Medicine Hat and Saamis Rotary Clubs.

2024

Modern vertical “Monarch” sign removed with façade rehabilitation/restoration

A photo inside a theatre

2024

North (front) façade rehabilitation of the parapet, stucco finish and restoration

A quiet, empty street in a small town with a mix of older buildings and shops on both sides.

Restoration

A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre
A image of an old theatre

Contractors & Donations ...

Monetary Donations ...

Book Now

Quick Dick McDick @ Monarch Theatre

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TIME
Dec 14, 2024 - 06:00PM

Jake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys

A poster for a Jake Vaadeland event
Jake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys
Doors open
06:30PM
SHOW STARTS
07:30PM
OR GET TICKETS AT THE DOOR

The Grinch

A poster of the movie The Grinch
Get ready for laughs, holiday cheer, and a reminder of what Christmas is all about. Perfect for kids, adults, and every Who in Whoville!

🎟️ Admission: $5 (Cash Only)
🍿 Concessions Deal: Any 2 items for just $5!
TIME
Dec 15, 02:00PM

Rolling for Hope

A poster image of an event
The The Monarch 1911 Society welcomed the Medicine Hat Skateboard Association for their premiere of their documentary “Rolling for Hope” last night which covers the groups recent trip to Mexico.
TIME
May 25, 02:00PM