February 10, 2022

RENOVATED OPERA HOUSE THEATRE KEEPS CHARM WITH GORGEOUS EYE CANDY FACELIFT

GRAVENHURST — It’s curtains up and new doors are open on the Opera House as the box office reopened today with tickets on sale for the first show in almost two years March 26.

And 305 newly upholstered seats await you upstairs in the theatre, where extensive renovations the past 18 months have given the grand old lady of Gravenhurst a facelift that’s more than a cosmetic coating of foundation.

It’s like a shot of Botox. Eye candy that doesn’t compromise the prized hall’s acoustics.

A look, feel and sounds theatre goers and users will love.

Top to bottom — from new stage lighting, floor and video screen, to tech deck steps, newly-covered seating, to new windows in the Trillium Court and three complete washroom makeovers — the Op is looking great for her advanced age of 121 years.

Even the lighter paint on the walls makes the concert hall more open and airy.

The Trillium Court remains the same.

We had an OP-purtunity to see inside the renovations this morning during a tour with manager Kelly Hamilton and Shawna Patterson the town’s new interim arts and recreation director.

Patterson said the budget for the work was $385,000.

We even had a chance to stop in and say “Hi” to Fred Schulz — who is back helping book shows for the coming spring, summer and fall seasons again — and genial box office manager Norbert Kondrackie.

So let’s go have a look-see at 5 videos and photos ….

Kelly Hamilton and Shawna Patterson usher in a new look for the Opera House concert hall.

So … tell us what’s been going on these past 18 months.

What’s it look like to stand on stage and look out?

Welcome to the box office – now open – get your tickets for Boreal here from Norbert Kondrackie.

Well, that’s our little show and tour. One last thing …

The Op’s first show features Boreal, singer-songwriters Tannis Slimmon, Katherine Wheatley and Angie Nussey. COVID seating restrictions are in place for the show with half-capacity.

The $30 tickets (+ tax, fees) are now online by phone at 705-687-5550, or stop by the box office for in-person service from Kondrackie. He’s open Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. — and 10 a.m. to showtime performance days.

As well, the Trillium Court is open rentals, meetings and ceremonies — capped at 50 per cent capacity at this time due to COVID. Indoor social gatherings following a ceremony must be kept to 10 persons. An enhanced QR Code for proof of vaccination is required. Call 705-687-5550, ext. 2023 to book.