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After 11 months of construction, The 5th celebrated its grand opening on September 24, 1926 and lived up to its promise as a magnificent showplace.
Under the guidance of architect Robert C. Reamer and interior designer Gustav F. Liljestrom, the ornate interior was modeled after three of Imperial China’s architectural achievements: the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heavenly Peace, and the Summer Palace.
The theatre was also considered a technical marvel at the time, thanks to its state-of-the-art sound, lighting and ventilation systems.
Design highlights
The attention to detail is incredible, from the intricate organ grilles graced by Ho-ho birds to the coffered ceilings and the balcony walls covered with orange blossoms, chrysanthemums and lotus flowers.
One of the most stunning features is the auditorium’s center dome, a replica of the one from the palace’s throne room (only twice the size). The “Pearl of Perfection” chandelier is held in the teeth of a great coiling dragon, which has five toes - each toe representing an evil spirit that must be vanquished. The elaborate proscenium arch that frames the stage features a myriad of Chinese design motifs, including bas-reliefs of the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. The theatre’s constant residents are a pair of Fu Dogs, which have traditionally stood guard in front of China’s imperial palaces.
Following the grand opening, The 5th served as a venue for vaudeville, then operated as a movie palace until the 1970s. Facing severe financial difficulties, The 5th was forced to close its doors in 1978. Possibilities for the site included a Chinese restaurant, a triplex movie theatre, an office building, and a shopping center.
A second chance
Fortunately, 43 business leaders banded together in 1979 and underwrote a $2.6 million loan to save this extraordinary cultural treasure.
Several changes were made during the painstaking renovation: the orchestra pit and auditorium seating were rebuilt, the dressing rooms moved, and the technical systems updated. However, the furniture, fixtures and signage are original. Even the paint was carefully restored to its original luster.
June 16, 1980 marked the theatre’s rebirth and a new chapter in Seattle’s arts community. Now a historic landmark, The 5th continues to thrive with the assistance of many generous donors and volunteers.
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