A major renovation of the MacKinnon Building to start this spring will result in updated performance space and a new look. The renovations aim to inspire the next generation of artists, musicians and performers who will shape the Canadian and international cultural landscape.
Shovels are expected to be in the ground starting in April with work complete by fall 2020. The work will preserve current building features while providing much-needed updates.
The renovation to the MacKinnon Building includes:
- Making the building fully accessible: new sizable elevator and wheelchair-accessible entries, particularly near the George Luscombe Theatre
- Creating five new practice rooms to replace the four current booths
- Moving the current courtyard and creating a landscaped open space
- Refurbishing offices
- Bringing in more light through a neutral colour palette
- Raising ceilings to give the feel of a more open space
ImprovLab Gets Its Own Space
Through Canada Foundation for Innovation funding, the ImprovLab will get dedicated space.
The new ImprovLab will be located in the courtyard of the MacKinnon Building, fulfilling the courtyard’s original intention as a theatre space. The ImprovLab space will include:
- 160-seat “black box” theatre – one that is completely configurable to a performance’s needs
- new offices
- new research space
In addition to the new ImprovLab space and general building updates, the George Luscombe Theatre and the Goldschmidt Room will also receive significant updates.
Learn more and see concept sketches on the College of Arts website.
