One of Canada's oldest theaters may soon close its doors in Calgary

In 1912, motorized motion picture cameras were invented, replacing manual cameras. That year, the oldest theater in Calgary and Western Canada was born.

Located within the historic Lougheed Block, the GRAND Theater was built by Sir James Alexander Lougheed when Calgary had a population of just 50,000.

Since then, it has been regarded as a center for theater arts in Calgary and Alberta and a place for community exchange.

However, the last act of the theater may come towards the end of this year.

“Despite more than a year of fruitful discussions and feasibility planning, the (GRAND) Society is surprised and disappointed to learn that its owner has rejected a proposal to add the GRAND Theater to the Arts Commons ecosystem,” said GRAND Society Executive Director Erin Lyster. .

“Due to these unforeseen circumstances, the Society may be forced to make a difficult decision later this year.”

In 2021, the Society sold the space to a company that shared its vision.

Since then, in order to create a sustainable future for the theatre, the Society said it has invited the main association partner to discuss a proposed partnership agreement with the new landlord.

“Together, we have created an exciting plan that will connect the GRAND theater space to the Arts Commons ecosystem of downtown venues,” the Society said on its website.

Archival photo of the GRAND Theater during construction. (Calgary GRAND Theater Society)

However, the situation has changed.

In mid-January, the theater society said landlord Allied Properties REIT had rejected an offer for a partnership agreement.

The Daily Hive has reached out to Urbanized Allied Properties REIT but has yet to hear back.

“Over the next several months, we will continue to work in good faith with the landlord in our tireless efforts to keep this 112-year-old theater in the Calgary performing arts community,” Lyster said.

“We will continue to look at ways to reduce costs, streamline operations and secure financing opportunities. If we cannot achieve a stable financial situation in the near future, the Company will be dissolved.”