Calgary’s long-standing Grand Theatre announced that its doors will remain open after months of uncertainty about the establishment’s future.
The theatre announced Thursday that it has reached an innovative partnership agreement with its landlord, Allied Properties REIT. Earlier this year, it was announced that the historic theatre was at risk of closing at the end of this year due to a tenancy dispute with its landlord.
The Grand Theatre Society has been negotiating partnership arrangements with its landlord to create a sustainable future for the theatre. The parties have now come to an agreement on how best to use the space.
“After several months of conversations and creative efforts to preserve our city’s historic theatre, we worked closely with Allied on a unique partnership agreement to attract new community partners who want to invest in, and share, our space,” explains Devon LeClair, board chair at the Grand Theatre.
“Allied’s willingness to collaborate reflects their commitment to the performing arts community and a reinvigorated downtown,” LeClair said.
According to the news release, around 70 arts community stakeholders participated in a workshop earlier this month to discuss how more organizations could access the theatre.
Erynn Lyster, executive director of the Grand, said that the discussions at the workshop painted a hopeful picture for the future of the theatre.
“Our recent community workshop and new agreement give us renewed hope and optimism, but our advocacy work is ongoing,” said Lyster. “The Society’s mission is to offer artists a stage for sharing and showcasing their talent. To fulfill this commitment, and sustain the space, we invite arts organizations to make The Grand their home. We’ll also require stronger financial contributions to help make it accessible.”
Since 1912, the Grand Theatre has been a hub for theatre arts and social gatherings in Calgary, and it looks as though it will continue to do so for many years to come!