Ontario is investing in the revitalization of Massey Hall, a popular venue that has hosted many cultural performances and experiences in its 123-year history, so it can remain operational for years to come.
Ontario previously invested $8 million in phase one of the revitalization of the historic venue, and is now committing an additional $4 million to phase two of the project. The first phase included the construction of a foundation for a new tower that will be connected to the south side of the building. Phase two will see the venue’s interior and exterior restored and planning take shape for the future south tower.
The multi-phase renovation is expected to take seven years to complete. The venue will continue to operate until summer 2018, at which time it will close temporarily until fall 2020.
“I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Government of Ontario for this investment in the Massey Hall revitalization. We are off to a great start!” said Deane Cameron, president and CEO of the Corporation of Massey Hall & Roy Thomson Hall, in a press release. “The demonstrated support we’ve felt from so many Ontario legislators has been incredible and this strategic investment accelerates the project closer to the $110 million needed to complete proper restoration of this iconic cultural institution and update it to 21st century standards.”
Massey Hall was built in 1894 and was designated a heritage property under the Ontario Heritage Act by the City of Toronto in 1975. It became a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981 and holds about 100 cultural events per year.
