Sarnia Imperial Theatre (submitted Photo)Sarnia Imperial Theatre (submitted Photo)
Sarnia

Imperial Theatre to host small sidewalk performances

Sarnia's Imperial Theatre has developed a plan to ease back into performances in August.

Executive Director Brian Austin said since they can't safely have performances on stage or welcome patrons into the building yet, they will be hosting outdoor shows from the sidewalk.

He said starting on First Friday, August 7, some of their favourite performers have agreed to sing solos from behind plexiglass.

"I know that there was concern when patios and bars were opening that they didn't want anybody singing in public," said Austin. "So, we're making sure that all of the breath is contained behind the plexiglass."

Austin said with Christina Street closed on weekends to allow more foot traffic, they'll be sectioning off social distancing bubbles to help spectators stay safe. He said masked staff and volunteers will sell popcorn, slushies and pop while you sit and enjoy the long-awaited live entertainment.

In the meantime, the Imperial and Theatre Sarnia are making one last push for "The Tiny Little Fundraiser" before it ends Friday.

Austin said the campaign, to help out the theatre that's been closed since March due to the pandemic, had raised $40,000 by late Wednesday.

"We're doing a countdown as a reminder. It seems like every time we push it through our social media, a light bulb goes off with some people and we see some other donations go in. So, it's been a great campaign so far."

Donations, which will be used to support the theatre's operations, can still be made online, or cheques can be mailed to the theatre at 168 Christina Street North, PO Box 43, Sarnia, Ontario N7T 7H8.

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