At Issue: The Georgian Theatre, Part 1

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, theatres across Canada have sat quiet. 

That’s just as you’d expect -- live theatre might seem like a distant memory in the days of lockdowns and physical distancing. 

But Barrie’s Theatre community didn't just pack up shop in 2020. 

They planned, pivoted, planned again, threw out plans, and made new ones -- and many were excited to begin prepping for a possible return to normalcy in 2021. 

That’s why it came as even more of a shock when they found out Barrie’s most suitable theatre location was being shut down. 

In the last week of February, it was announced the lease at the Georgian Theatre would be canceled. That saves the city $300,00 in expenditures.  

As you can imagine, that news sent shockwaves through the Barrie community. 

From musical theatre companies, to acting troupes to contemporary dance -- space has long been a gathering centre for the arts. Since the Fisher Auditorium was also voted to be demolished, Barrie has no option for mid-sized to large productions once COVID allows gathering. 

The situation developed quickly; outrage turned to action. 

A petition began, and multiple groups including the Kempenfelt Community Players and Theatre by the Bay met to discuss a path forward. 

On Monday, Barrie city council voted to apply for funding for a possible grant that would help make the Georgian useable in the interim. 

And don’t forget, Council has approved a theatre fund, with 2.5 million being siphoned in annually. But this doesn't guarantee a theatre anytime soon. So Barrie’s performing arts community was caught in a bind -- how to plan for a post-pandemic reality. 

Without the input of Angela Baldwin -- who suggested the city apply for the grant -- the Georgian could very well be a distant memory. 

Now, with a possible grant allowing for extended use -- and an outpouring of support from the Barrie community, it looks like there’s a bit of hope. 

Mayor Lehman is bringing the idea of a taskforce to council on March 22, which would see a group led by Councillor Jim Harris chart a path forward for Barrie’s performing arts community.