Massey Theatre Society is embarking on plans to equip the theatre for the future.
In June, the city and school district announced that the City of New Westminster would assume ownership of the theatre as part of the high school replacement plan. That news prompted the city to forge ahead with long-overdue improvements.
“We have been holding off on these investments for far too long due to uncertainly about the theatre’s future,” executive director Jessica Schneider said in a press release. “These are fundamental upgrades, and I am very excited to be making many more in the year ahead.”
Recent improvements have include the installation of state-of-the art Robert and Juliat spotlights, replacing spotlights that were purchased third-hand after Expo 86.
“Brighter, more energy-efficient and more readily adaptable, the spotlights are an essential element of a large theatre,” said a press release from Massey Theatre. “Audiences will definitely see the difference when they are in use at upcoming performances.”
The black stage drapes, which were about 40 years old, have been replaced with new deep black drapery that’s expected to provide a much improved backdrop for costumes, scenery and lighting featured on stage.
Last year, the Massey Theatre Society invested $125,000 in the drapery, lighting and other upgrades, with funds coming from the society’s fundraising campaign.
Community members can support Massey Theatre by making tax deductible donations or by buying tickets to performances at the venue, the release says.
