Friends of the Orpheum Theatre

The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre (FOTOT) is a dedicated volunteer organization committed to preserving, celebrating, and supporting the historic Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix, a treasured landmark owned and operated by the City of Phoenix.

Founded in November 1993 as the “support arm” of the Orpheum Theatre Foundation, FOTOT began with a passionate group of community volunteers who played a crucial role in the preservation and rehabilitation of the theatre. Our first official membership drive in September 1996 marked the beginning of a thriving community effort to keep the Orpheum’s legacy alive.

The grand reopening of the beautifully restored Orpheum Theatre took place on January 29, 1997, and FOTOT continued to provide valuable in-theatre and community-based support through volunteer ushers, tour guides, educational outreach, and advocacy.

In 2001, FOTOT became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, solidifying our commitment to the theatre’s future. For nearly a decade, we managed the training and scheduling of volunteer ushers and docents before transitioning these duties to the Phoenix Convention Center and Venues in 2010.

Today, FOTOT remains an all-volunteer organization that continues to protect and promote the Orpheum Theatre’s rich history. Through educational initiatives and fundraising efforts, we work to ensure that the theatre remains a vibrant part of Phoenix’s cultural heritage.