06/21/2026
Did you know? The Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture, home of the Mae Wilson Theatre (formerly Capitol Theatre) was once the largest theatre in Saskatchewan!
Originally opened in 1916, this stunning heritage building has been a centerpiece of Moose Jaw's entertainment and cultural scene for more than a century. Construction began during the First World War and was completed by the Allen Theatre Company, which transformed the building into a grand theatre designed to impress audiences from the moment they stepped through the doors.
Over the years, the Capitol welcomed moviegoers, touring performers, musicians, and theatre productions from across Canada. It was one of the city's premier gathering places, serving as a hub for entertainment and social life for generations of Moose Jaw residents and visitors. In 1929, the theatre adapted to the changing times with the installation of equipment for "talking pictures," helping usher in a new era of cinema in Saskatchewan.
Today, visitors can still admire many of the building's historic features, including its ornate brickwork, decorative details, iconic marquee, and impressive façade clad in locally made Claybank brick. As you stroll down Main Street, take a moment to appreciate this remarkable piece of Moose Jaw history and imagine the countless stories, performances, and memories that have unfolded within its walls over the past 110 years.