Olympia Theatre was designed by Cutting & Forbush, it described as having an unusual nearly formidable unornamented imposing façade with an asymmetric design built with roman brick makes this structure one of kind. The front of the theatre would have been adorned with a simple marquee and ticket booth.

 The theatre opened its doors in 1891 as Lothrop’s Opera House. Women were welcomed ahead of the grand opening giving them a chance to inspect the theatre's beautiful architecture and decor. Inside guests were met by Worcester’s first all-female orchestra, which was unusual during this time-period.

Throughout the years Olympia Theatre has worn many hats under different names, starting out as the opera house, moving to silent films, movies and finally the “fine arts”. 

Since closing its doors, this historic theatre has been put on the city’s most endangered list. Although there is renewed interest in the theatre there is much work needed to be done. Being the city’s oldest standing theatre, it also needs the most help to be saved.   

The Worcester Olympia Theatre Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit welcoming a diverse group of members whose dedication is preserving the architectural history of the city. With a mission to provide our community an opportunity to be engaged and entertained by the performing/visual arts.

Worcester oldest theatre needs your support to be saved!