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Dispute over rental rates splits up Gayety and Theatre Collingwood

After 15 years Theatre Collingwood and The Historic Gayety Theatre are parting ways
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Erika Engel/CollingwoodToday

Theatre Collingwood and The Historic Gayety Theatre have parted ways this year.

A dispute over rental rates brought an end to the 15-year partnership.

Until recently, Theatre Collingwood rented the Gayety Theatre for a majority of its live theatre events.

In a statement issued by Gayety owner Sid Dickinson earlier today, he said his theatre is sad to see Theatre Collingwood go, and called the decision “unexpected.”

In a statement issued by Theatre Collingwood, Executive Director Erica Angus, said rates have increased several times since 2013, and the theatre company was facing a 35 per cent increase over last year’s rates.

“This made the Gayety unaffordable for Theatre Collingwood,” said Angus.

According to Dickinson, the Gayety offered a “substantially” discounted rate to Theatre Collingwood in previous years and this year offered a “modest discount.”

Dickinson said renovations and new sound and lighting equipment paired with increased demand for the venue space drove up the price offered to Theatre Collingwood.

“Theatre Collingwood and The Historic Gayety Theatre both then made a hard business decision that has resulted in our parting of ways,” said Dickinson. “From the Historic Gayety Theatre’s perspective, the decision is accepted without animosity or prejudice to a future relationship.”

The statement from Theatre Collingwood said there were “many meetings” between Theatre Collingwood and Dickinson with Bryce Blais, manager of the Gayety Theatre, to negotiate rental terms.

“Our whole organization is very sad about this situation and about the treatment we have received from the Gayety,” said Angus.

The statement further suggested Theatre Collingwood was concerned about accessibility at the Gayety Theatre. The entrance has steps but no lift.

“Access for all will certainly be one of the prime factors in choosing venues for our performances,” said Angus.

Both organizations say they will continue to host entertainment events, with the Gayety putting on its own shows and renting to others for events.

Theatre Collingwood is currently looking for a new venue for its theatre line-up.


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Erika Engel

About the Author: Erika Engel

Erika regularly covers all things news in Collingwood as a reporter and editor. She has 15 years of experience as a local journalist
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