The Grand Theatre in London has become the latest local organization forced to make changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Grand announced on Monday that, following discussion with its stakeholders, the theatre will be postponing a planned $8 million renovation.
“Like the majority of businesses and organizations in Canada, the Grand has had to make some very difficult and heart-wrenching decisions over the past few days,” said Executive Director Deb Harvey in a news release. “But the health and well-being of our staff, guest artists, students, and other citizens must take priority.”
The work at the theatre was expected to begin on May 3, but has now been pushed back until sometime in 2021. The renovation is a partnership between private funders, and the federal and municipal governments, with support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
The majority of the theatre's staff have also been placed on emergency leave due to the pandemic, and those who are continuing to work are doing so from home.
As well, the theatre has announced that it has cancelled its High School Project for the 2020/2021 Season, along with the annual Grand Gala held annually in the Spring that raises funds to support youth programming.
“We know this will be a huge disappointment for the students who are already facing uncertainty and upheaval with their current school year,” said Dennis Garnhum, the theatre's artistic director. “The High School Project is a program that is embraced by so many in the community, not the least of whom is our staff who are devastated by this news. Just three weeks ago, we gathered at Western Fair and announced an incredible partnership that would have seen the High School Project – BARNUM - move to a big top tent during the Fair in September of 2020.”
The program allows London high school students to be mentored in acting, stage management, props, wardrobe, scenic art, sound, lighting, orchestra, and photography by mentors in the field. The program, which began in 1998 and is the only program of its kind in North America, culminates each year with a stage production.
Anyone who has purchased tickets to the High School Project will have the option of donating the value of their tickets back to the theatre, taking a credit, or requesting a full refund.