The History of The Trocadero

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For those native to area, it’s more than likely that The Trocadero Theatre on Arch Street holds some kind of memory from years gone by. The Troc, as it’s better known as, is currently an entertainment venue on the outskirts of Chinatown. This month, they hosted the world premiere of As The Palaces Burn, a heavy metal documentary that follows the case and trial of Randy Blythe, lead singer of Lamb of God.

With all the hip events held there now, it’s easy to forget the rich history of The Troc, which has been a staple of Center City for over a century. Founded in 1870, The Troc started out as the Arch Street Opera House and offered musical comedies as well as traveling minstrel shows. Fast forward to when the theater took on its final and current name and became home to vaudeville and burlesque shows that featured notable showgirls. At this time in the 1940s, they were pushing the boundaries of what was considered “decent” and formed an edgy reputation.

Presently, The Troc is the only 19th century Victorian theater still in operation in the United States. The theater has seen several modifications and renovations over the years, turning into an art house cinema and fine arts theater before a final transformation in 1986 to the concert hall that we see today.

Success of The Troc is credited to their record of notable performances. These have included the live recording of Chaos Rules by Philly punk band, The Dead Milkmen in 1994, as well as the 2006 My Chemical Romance $2 Bill concert that aired on MTV.

Upcoming shows include the Oxymoron World Tour with Schoolboy Q on March 3rd, the Guys From That Metal Show on May 3rd, several of their  famous Monday Night Movie Nights, and much more.

The next time you walk by or step inside The Trocadero Theatre, remember to enjoy all of the history that can be found inside its walls and creaking floorboards. This venue has fought hard to remain in Philadelphia, and we hope it’s here to stay.

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