Mosque Theatre, USA

The Mosque Theatre is a stunning example of a Shriner’s Temple, built in a lavish Moorish revival architectural style. The building was constructed in the early 20th Century, with its four towering minarets it is an iconic part of the city skyline. This mining city attracted large numbers of migrants during the coal-production hay-days. As coal mines closed over recent decades, the population of this city declined and buildings such as this were forced to diversify or face dereliction.

In the 1930’s the original floor plan replaced with a sloped floor, and fitted with two-tier auditorium style-seating. A stage was added at the front of the temple, and the temple was then used as a performing arts theatre for much of 20th Century. The temple also continued to host religious rituals and social events for the community. The building was used for events such as weddings, graduation ceremonies, orchestra performances and theatre productions.

As newer and better-equipped theatres began to arrive in the town, and the temple was forced to close. The site was bought by new owners at the turn of 21st Century, with grand plans to revitalise the building. Essential roof repairs were done to prevent a catastrophic collapse of the domed roof; a roof failure would have been the queue for demolition orders and the loss of this historic building. A financial crisis forced the owners to abandon restoration work. A new restoration project is working in partnership with the local community to offer this wonderful building a new lease of life.

The ceiling features an iconic stained glass dome, in a vivid array of colours. All other windows are boarded, and the only natural light inside the theatre enters through the dome. Inside is very dark, and careful use of a high-powered torch and long exposures were needed to reveal the temple’s exquisite details to the cameras lens.

Typical bold Art Deco-era colours accent the geometric patterns adorn then proscenium arch above the stage, as well as along the walls of upper seating level. These are decorative plaster mouldings painted vivid burgundy and navy blue, with rich gold paint highlighting the embossed areas of the decorations. Above the stage Arabic-themed scenes are painted, featuring images of camels, bustling market places and desert dwellings.