News Archives: GPRC Theatre Dark June through September 2013
Thursday, March 28th, 2013
Anyone new to Grande Prairie may not recall the days when the front portion of the GPRC stage could be lowered to accommodate a full orchestra, or sent all the way down to the pit to bring up sets from the workshop. The hydraulic system on which the stage lift operated failed in 2010, and the stage floor has been in a fixed position waiting for an available space of time to accommodate the necessary repair.
The dates have now been set, funding has been secured, and the DJ Cardinal Performing Arts Centre at GPRC will be "dark" from June through September 2013 while the lift is repaired. No bookings have been accepted during that time, and annual events such as GPRC Orientation have been relocated to the gymnasium.
The repair process is time consuming and costly. The platform and lift will be removed and the area will be cleared of all leaked hydraulic fluids. A new cement pad will be poured, then new forms will be built for the footings. Once footings are poured, the new lift will be installed and the platform will be reinstalled. The whole process will require four months, and the expertise of Field, Field and Field of Grande Prairie and Gala Systems Canada.
The months of wait will be worthwhile, however; performances and presentations following this long-awaited repair will once again enjoy the full glory of the GPRC theatre and its spectacular stage. Bookings will be accepted for events planned beginning October 2013. For bookings please contact GPRC Theatre and Events at 780-539-2442.