The former University Theatre once located at 100 Bloor St W in the Yorkville neighbourhood of Toronto.
The archive photo shows on the marquee that “Joan of Arc,” starring Ingrid Bergman, José Ferrer and Selena Royle, was playing.
The post-war cinema, constructed by Famous Players Limited and designed by architect Eric Hounsom, was in operation from 1949 until 1986. Following the developer’s acquisition of the prime real estate, the theatre’s historic façade was restored. Each limestone block was carefully dismantled, individually numbered, cleaned, patched, and reassembled.
The total restoration cost was $1 million, and the project was completed in 2002. Currently, the building houses a retail storefront and, as of October 2024, serves as the new location for the British fashion brand Burberry.
Then and Now
SOURCE
- City of Toronto Heritage Register: 100 Bloor St W
- Photo: Denise Marie for TorontoJourney416
- Vintage Photo: City of Toronto Archives
- Toronto City Directory courtesy of Toronto Public Library
