Chevalier Theater

The Chevalier Theatre was completed in 1940 by the Works Progress Administration as part of the Medford High School complex. Behind its classical facade is an elliptical art deco theater with a double elliptical ceiling. It that seats more than 2,000 -- 1,350 on the floor and 711 in the curved balcony. It is the sixth largest theater in the Metropolitan Boston area.

It was used as Medford High's auditorium, for student theatrical productions and special commencements until 1965. John F. Kennedy spoke there, and there were performances by many celebrities, including Frank Sinatra and Lou Rawls. In 1965, Medford High School burned down. Although the theater was not badly damaged, it fell into disuse after the school was rebuilt at another location.

In 1981 an all volunteer civic commission was formed by the city and charged with restoration of the theater as an independent operation. Although a great deal of work has been done, the restoration continues to this day.

External links

• Chevalier Theater web site