Yates closed for renovations until next May

After a summer filled with music and humour, the Yates Centre is “going dark.”

The 50-year-old theatre will be closed for renovations until next May.

Behind-the-scenes work has been underway for many months, city officials say. Now updates and renovations will begin in the performance spaces.

When it reopens, they add, the Yates will provide improved performance capabilities along with more comfort for audience members. Enhancements will include new seats, elevators, barrier-free washrooms and improved signage.

The building will also gain a new roof, a sprinkler system, acoustic treatments and upgraded floors, ceilings and walls. Mechanical and electrical systems are also being updated, the performers’ dressing rooms are being improved and the soundblocking catwalk near the stage is being relocated.

The major improvements are being funded in part by a $3.5-million grant from the federal government’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.

The theatre’s temporary closure will result in a number of local groups finding an alternative performance space for the coming months. New West Theatre, one of the Yates’ major tenants, has already announced shows to be performed in a variety of locations through the fall and winter.

The Ticket Centre box office will also remain closed, but the Enmax Centre location will continue to handle ticket sales for many events. Seats may also be booked by phone at 403-329-7328.