March 09, 2015
Photo of Massey Hall. Credit: Nephron. Copyright 2011 http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nephron.
For 120 years, Massey Hall has proven itself as Canada’s premier music venue. In seven years time, it’s only going to get better as Massey Hall undergoes its most ample revitalization since the 1940s.
The entire project is split into two phases at a cost of $135 million. The plans are extensive, with an additional six-storey portion built on a transferred piece of land gifted from condo developers, MOD Developments.
Phase One has already begun. With an initial cost of $32 million, the Albert Building is demolished (formerly known as “the janitor’s residence” turned administrative space), and a two-story basement will be laid to accommodate various technical facilities. The end of Phase One rounds off with another $9 million before moving on to Phase Two, beginning 2019, in which the interior and exterior will undergo enhancement.
The additional portion of the building will begin in Phase Two, accommodating a first-ever loading dock, physically accessible amenities, and artist development space.
The project is estimated to finish in 2021.
At the helm of the plans are KPMB Architects, Goldsmith Borgal & Company Ltd. Architects—two noteworthy Toronto architect firms with an eye for excellence. Former clients include Canada’s National Ballet School and The University of Toronto, respectively.
The project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and private donations, including RBC and TD Bank Group.
In a press release late last month, Joe Oliver, Minister of Finance, said, “Our government is proud to be supporting this revitalization project, because it will maintain and modernize this iconic building, contribute to the cultural and social fabric of the city and generate economic growth, job creation and increased tourism throughout the GTA.”
Charles S. Cutts, President and CEO of The Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall says Massey Hall will ‘go dark’ for 18 to 24 months during the most extensive renovations in Phase Two.
“Until then, it will be business as usual at Massey Hall.”
Want to take in a Massey Hall show but won’t be in the Toronto area anytime soon? Check out the Live at Massey Hall video series on YouTube, or the Season 1 director’s cut below.
Live at Massey Hall, Season 1
In other news…
- The African Nova Scotian Music Association Awards celebrates 17 years
- The Globe and Mail editors share memories about Massey Hall
- Ontario Minister of tourism wins best Massey Hall memory
- Canada’s most woman-friendly bar
- Viet Cong show cancelled at Oberlin College
- Zackariah Rathwell and Josh Hunter to be honoured at JUNO Awards
- Nickelback hits platinum for their seventh time
- Tom Hanks stars in Carly Rae Jepsen video
- Gary Slaight gives $7 million to seven different charities
- Apple may begin streaming music in June
– Leyland Bradley
Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Get at me @LeylandMarie or leyland.bradley@gmail.com.