The Orpheum
216 State St.
A Beacon of Entertainment
A Place for the People
Opening its doors on March 31, 1927, the Orpheum was designed by the legendary theater architects Rapp & Rapp to be a true “palace for the people.” The stunning exterior features an Art Deco facade, crowned by the iconic, towering “ORPHEUM” sign that has lit up State Street for generations. Inside, patrons were transported to another world. The lavish, two-story grand lobby and 2,500-seat auditorium were inspired by the French Renaissance palaces of Versailles and Fontainebleau, complete with ornate gold details, marble statues, and grand staircases, making a trip to the movies an unforgettable, luxurious experience.
The Heartbeat of State Street
From the moment it opened, the Orpheum became the cultural heartbeat of downtown Madison. Located directly across from the equally grand Capitol Theater, it anchored a vibrant theater district that drew thousands of people to State Street for movies and live vaudeville shows. While other downtown theaters faded with the rise of television and suburban multiplexes, the Orpheum survived. Today, it stands as the city's most magnificent and best-preserved movie palace, a cherished landmark that continues to host concerts and films, connecting Madison's past and present.
