GRAND BANK, N.L— The Bait Depot in Grand Bank has been transformed into the temporary home of the Grand Bank Regional Theatre.
In past years, the group has held performances in their own theatre located on Water Street, but due to concerns by Fire and Emergency Services Newfoundland and Labrador about the condition of the Samuel J Harris building, which houses the theatre space, the group had to move.
The issue is with an unused side of the building that at one time was a fish plant.
In a previous story by The Southern Gazette, Jack Burfitt, vice chair of Lighthouse Production Inc.’s board of directors, said the old section of the building has been the main source of concern in the past and continues to be the problem.
He was quoted as saying it was only getting worse and there were worries that if Grand Bank were to get a really strong storm of wind, and that side started to crumble, it would pull the rest of the building down with it.
The group will be performing the entirety of the 2018 season out of the Bait Depot.
To prepare the Bait Depot for opening night on July 7, an extension was added to the existing stage. As well, the stage has been divided by curtains to allow for a backstage area, and dressing rooms for the performers.
A section out of view of the audience has also been allotted for the sound and lighting crew.
Levi Curtis, artistic director for the theatre, said they are working with what they have.
A section of the venue will also be used as a bar.
The opening night gala is on July 7. The regular season will open on July 10 and run until Aug. 25.
For information, show times or how to become a sponsor call (709) 873-ACT2 (2282) or visit www.grandbanktheatre.ca.
With files from Paul Herridge
