Capitol Theatre Information

The Capitol Theatre has been at the heart of the Salt Lake arts and culture community since its opening in 1913 as the Orpheum Theatre. Originally a vaudeville house, the Orpheum offered “the highest standard acts and greatest stars of the stage.” In 1923, movies were introduced to the theatre and in 1927, new owners renamed the venue the Capitol Theatre. In 1975, the building was renovated and turned into a performing arts center as part of the Salt Lake County Bicentennial Celebration, and again in 2013, to improve sight lines and restroom access, among other enhancements, this was when the theatre was renamed the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre. The most recent renovation, in 2019, added ADA seating, a new sound system, restored the roof to the original terracotta façade as well as other building infrastructure.

Today the Capitol Theatre is known for its elegant turn-of-the-century architecture, and more than 100 years after its construction, the venue continues to host exceptional events and performers. The main hall has a capacity of 1791 seats to host its world-class Broadway productions and concerts, stunning ballet and dance performances, heart-rending Opera and all the other routines, recitals, comedy and community events to grace its stage. The Capitol is the home of resident companies Ballet West, Utah Opera, Children’s Dance Theatre, and Broadway Across America and the Capitol hosts the annual Jazz SLC series. Huge Broadway stars including Robert Goulet, Carol Channing, Molly Ringwald, and Marissa Jaret Winkour have played on its stage.

Concessions are available before the show and at intermission in the lobby and mezzanine level. Western Foods offers gourmet candies, baked treats, and beverages including bottled water, Coca-Cola products, coffee, and craft or domestic beers. Bottled water and snacks are allowed in the seating area, however, please enjoy other beverages before entering the performance.

Coat check is available in the lobby near concessions. This service is available to all patrons for $1.00 per item (cash only). 

Booster seat cushions available on a first-come first-served basis at Capitol Theatre. The cushions are primarily for children and petite adults. Cushions are distributed at the coat check stand.

More Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre information:

Ticket Policy:
Read about the ticket policies from our preferred ticket reseller and about their authenticity guarantees.

Seating Map:
Have a look at the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre seating map and learn about different seating arrangements.

Parking Information:
Driving to the venue? Read more about Capitol Theatre parking options here.