After a three-year $184 million restoration, it’s back and more beautiful than ever
Photo by Patrick Marcoux
mAssey Hall has been Toronto’s sound haven for over a century, a sacred haven for homegrown acts like Gordon Lightfoot, the Tragically Hip and Broken Social Scene. But in 2018, even the most diehard fans of the venue had to admit that it felt tired. The mostly wooden building was a huge fire hazard, the creaky seats in the gallery were less ergonomic than a pew, and the once magnificent ceiling had fallen into such disrepair that it had to be wrapped in chicken wire to prevent pieces from hitting the concertgoers. would fall down. †
After a three-year, $184 million restoration, Massey is back and more beautiful than ever. With the help of a team of design and acoustics experts, veteran architect Marianne McKenna and her firm KPMB repaired the ornate ceiling, restored and soundproofed 100 boarded-up stained glass windows, updated the stage and seats (now with cup holders!) , and built a sleek new bar — accessed by a floating glass walkway — so patrons no longer have to crawl into the basement for a mid-concert cocktail. Artists will also be digging the new digs, as the auditorium is part of a multi-level music complex that has a second venue, recording studio, rehearsal rooms, and green rooms, giving performers finally a good place to prep before setting off on the stage.
The ground floor seats slide under the stage, allowing for general-access shows. Photo by Derek ShaptonThe 2,550 seats with new cushions are wider and further apart to provide more legroom. Photo by Derek ShaptonFeist’s sequined jumpsuit is one of the outfits on display in Massey’s lobbies. Photo by Derek ShaptonOne hundred stained glass windows were removed, restored offsite and then reinstalled. Photo by Derek Shapton
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