Photo credit: globalnews.ca
Fort Macleod’s Empress Theatre Undergoes Major Restoration
While 1912 is widely remembered for the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic and the significant political shifts in China, a small town in southern Alberta remembers this year for a different reason: the opening of the Empress Theatre. This charming venue, featuring Tiffany-style lighting and seating for just over 300 patrons, launched with the intent to entertain the residents of Fort Macleod after two years of construction.
Since its inception, the Empress Theatre has been a cultural cornerstone for the community. It has weathered changes from the roaring twenties to the modern digital age, while also serving as a filming location for various Hollywood productions.
However, after enduring two world wars and hosting innumerable performances, this historic theatre, now 113 years old, is in urgent need of a makeover.
“It’s been a long time coming. Anyone who has been a patron of the theatre is well aware of the need. We’re excited to see it come to fruition,” stated Denise Joel, president of the Empress Theatre Society. This project is not merely a renovation; it is a restoration, which brings heightened costs due to the sensitive work involved.
“We need to ensure that we honor the heritage of the building, capturing and preserving its essence. Therefore, the costs are significant,” explained Brennan Orr, the director of operations for Fort Macleod.
The estimated value for the restoration work exceeds $200,000, with the theatre society setting a fundraising target of $250,000 to allow some cushion for potential underestimations. In response to the financial challenge, the Empress Theatre Society has initiated a campaign to gather the required funds.
“We call it S.O.S., which stands for Save Our Seat, aiming to not only preserve the seats but also enhance the comfort of our patrons, as many of these seats have seen better days,” Joel remarked. The theatre is welcoming donations through various avenues, including the option to ‘sponsor a seat’ for $500, which allows donors to have their names displayed on a plaque.
The Town of Fort Macleod and the Government of Alberta have also contributed significant support through grants and other funding, alleviating some of the financial burden from the theatre society. Joel pointed out that without this backing, the task of raising the necessary funds would have been daunting.
While it might have been more cost-effective to install new seating and flooring, Orr emphasized the importance of maintaining the theatre’s legacy. “It holds significant value for our community, and its recognition as a heritage site enhances its appeal and importance,” he stated.
In 2021, the Empress Theatre hosted a special screening of “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” which was filmed in Alberta, including Fort Macleod. This event not only celebrated local cinema but also generated funds to support the theatre’s restoration efforts.
The significance of the theatre transcends its physical structure. According to Joel, every artist who has graced the Empress stage has signed the basement walls, leaving behind a tapestry of memories and messages that highlight the venue’s rich history. This sense of community, combined with nostalgia for the theatre, suggests that fundraising will likely succeed.
“It’s a beloved building, filled with memories of movies, live shows, and community events. Preserving this heritage for future generations is essential,” Orr added.
The restoration will encompass modifications to seating, leveling of floors, enhancements to wheelchair accessibility, expanded restroom facilities, and new carpeting. These upgrades will enrich the overall patron experience without compromising the theatre’s distinct charm, often dubbed ‘the Jewel of Main Street.’
“We will maintain the cherished creaks and features that evoke fond memories while giving the theatre a fresh lease on life with updated carpets and chair coverings,” Orr noted.
Joel mentioned that an exciting event is planned for the grand reopening but remained tight-lipped about the specifics. “I can’t disclose details just yet, but we are planning something exciting, possibly a concert or a more elaborate celebration,” she hinted.
The Empress Theatre will temporarily close on May 1, with a reopening planned for fall. An official date will be announced soon.
Source
globalnews.ca