A Tour of the Hippodrome

The Hippodrome Theatre had a very unusual beginning, and its quaint and rustic beauty reflects the theatre’s age. This 101 year-old building has survived from its founding, and it possesses many behind-the-scenes areas not viewed by its guests.

We traveled through the renowned playhouse with our guide, Randy. Our first stop on the theatre’s tour was the rehearsal room. This unique room is used to rehearse scenes and plays while the set is being built onstage. Mirrors run along the walls of this room, and neon green tape on the ground indicates the stage area to the actors. The most interesting addition to this room is a giant vault. Although it is not used to store a secret stash of money or gold, it stores props and costumes.

When we entered the theatre, Randy informed us that the space was once a long-standing courtroom. Currently, the theatre consists of the stage and the theatre seats. The theatre seats 268 viewers and has soundproof windows and doors to enhance the theatre’s sound.

The greenroom was our next destination. This is an area for the actors to relax before going on stage. This is also where the dressing rooms are located. Various props and costumes are found throughout this room.

After descending a few flights of stairs, we entered the basement. This part of the theatre has been renovated is rented out for wedding receptions, proms, and other celebrations. The oldest part of the building happens to be located in the basement as well. The Otis elevator 1911 model still runs today and controls the building’s elevator system.

The Hippodrome Theatre still stands a century later. We were able to view certain areas of this iconic theatre that many guests are not authorized to see. With this experience, we learned about the building’s history and long-lasting features.




-Justin Suero & Jacquelyn Rodriquez