Fallen empires: Lost theatres of Edmonton, 1881-1914

by John Orrell

Fallen Empires-part of the NeWest Press Landmark Edition Series-traces the development of Edmonton's theatre scene from 1881 to 1914, when live drama and vaudeville acts were in high demand. Author John Orrell delves into the construction and appearance of Edmonton's earliest theatres, as well as the performances that took place there and the reactions they merited. Fallen Empires brings Edmonton's past theatres to life-preserving a vital part of Edmonton's history. This new edition comes with an insightful introduction by Diane Bessai and an updated biography by Wendy Orrell. It is also timed as companion to the NeWest Press publication of Stewart Lemoine's play about the visit of Sarah Bernhardt to Edmonton's second Empire Theatre in 1913.

141 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2007

Reviews

[darrin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really good read for the history of the theatre in Edmonton as well as the history of Edmonton itself in the early years outside the fort.