Frequently

Asked Questions

August 30, 2007

Thank you for your interest in the Capitol Theatre. We have developed this list of frequently asked questions to clarify the status of our project and to reinforce your support and encouragement for this very important community project.

Table of Contents

The Capitol Theatre: An introduction

The costs and fundraising

Why restore the theatre

The building

Programming

Partnerships, Economic Benefits and other information

How you can help

The Capitol Theatre: An introduction

Who owns the Capitol Theatre?

The theatre is owned by the Chatham Capitol Theatre Association (CCTA), a not-for-profit corporation with status as a registered charity.

How old is the theatre?

The theatre was completed in 1930, making it 77 years old in 2007!

Who is on the Board of Directors?

The Capitol Theatre is very honoured to have these community minded people on our Board:

• President Kevin McMillan (Internationally acclaimed classical singer and Adjunct Professor of Voice in the Don Wright Faculty of Music, University of Western Ontario)
  
• Vice-President Dale Ripley (Retired Teacher)
  
• Treasurer Janet McGuigan-Kelly (Barrister & Solicitor)
  
• Secretary Janet Bernreuter (Retired President & CEO, Sass Manufacturing Co. Ltd, retired elementary teacher, piano teacher and accompanist)
  
• Advisor Diane McGuigan (HRSDC Service Delivery Manager, Chatham, Wallaceburg and Leamington)
  • David Jacklin (Lawyer and Partner, Raphael Partners LLP)
  
• Dan Warrener (Entrepreneur and President of Wellington Polymer Ltd., CEO of Chatham Rubber Manufacturing Ltd., CEO of Nova Scotia Properties and a partner in RM Auto Restoration Co.)
  
• Charles Seaman (Retired Area Manager, Royal Bank of Canada)
  
• Geoff Wright (Service/Commercial Coordinator, Economic Development Services, Municipality of Chatham-Kent)
  
• Shannon Prince (Curator of the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum)
  
• Mike Pugh (Vice President, SelectCore Communications)
  
• Patricia McFarlane (Retired Principal, St. Clair College, Thames Campus)
  

It is important that everyone understand that they are strictly volunteers, working long and hard without any pay whatsoever. They are involved because they believe in the project and what it can do for Chatham-Kent.

Why has it taken so long to build the theatre?

In the very early stages of construction, the size of the staff was small and focused predominantly on decorative work. Most of the decorative restoration work being undertaken is very elaborate in detail and quite painstaking.

About half of the fundraising is dependent upon voluntary contributions. So, we can only build as fast as funding allows. Sometimes, we have been criticized for how we are moving ahead i.e. why did we do certain portions of the restorative work instead of tearing down walls? This is because tearing down walls to build a stage costs a lot more money. If we didn’t have enough money at the time, it wouldn’t make sense to do things that way and so we complete more modest work along the way.

We’d also like you to know that in Canada and the United States, it isn’t uncommon for theatre reconstruction to take 10-20 years. So we feel that we’ve done very well. Some examples are:

• The Ritz Theatre in Tiffin, Ohio took ten years to complete
• The Caroline Theatre in Durham, North Carolina began work in 1977 and the theatre opened in 1994
• Work began on the Garde Arts Theatre in New London, Connecticut in 1985. The lobbies and the auditorium are now complete but they still do not have the fly tower
• Work on the Elgin and Wintergarden Theatres in Toronto began in 1981 and they were completed in 1989
• The Imperial Theatre in St. John took approximately 15 years to complete. They received a Federal Government grant in the amount of $11 million to complete the 900 seat theatre. The total cost was approximately $15 million. All monies were provided by the Federal and Provincial governments

The other reason is that the Chatham-Kent community has had a lot of very worthwhile projects that have needed private funding over the course of the past few years. Examples are the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, the Children’s Safety Village and the Ridgetown Agricultural School. We’re happy about that though! We believe it will take all of these facets working together to maximize the potential of Chatham-Kent as a vital community.

Has the project expanded in size since it started?

Yes it has. The project evolved from the initial goal of saving and refurbishing the Capitol Theatre as it stood in 1995. Initial plans called for basic clean up and repair of the theatre, but after some considerable research, recommendations from internationally known theatre consultants, and discussions with the Kiwanis Theatre, the Municipality, and many other stakeholders resulted in the need for a fly tower, a balcony, an upper lounge, additional seating and other furnishings and equipment. These elements, as well as other operational requirements such as sewage system extensions, alteration of the heating/ventilation/air conditioning system, and addition of an emergency generator have added significant time and expense to the project.

Who works at the Theatre?

The Capitol has been very lucky to have Job Creation Participants work at both the administration office and in the theatre itself. Everyone who works at the theatre is trained in various positions. Without this program, the costs to build the theatre and maintain the offices would have been way too high. Many of the Job Creation Participants go on to get full time jobs someplace else so the Capitol has to retrain new participants periodically. This is a constant challenge but a happy one!
While undergoing the reconstruction phase and fundraising drive, the CCTA currently employs approximately 17 staff. Various local contractors and consultants are also employed from time to time. The employees are subsidized through the provincial government while the local contractors and consultants are paid through the fundraising budget.
When we’re open, the theatre will provide full-time and part-time employment opportunities to the citizens of Chatham-Kent.

The costs and fundraising

How much is it going to cost to build the theatre?

The total remaining reconstruction cost was originally estimated to be about $5,000,000 We’ve received tenders and are working with the architects to confirm the prices. It looks as though we will need to raise another $2.8 million over and above the $5,000,000.
There is approximately $1.7 million in outstanding pledges and a committed grant, leaving approximately $6.1 million to be raised from the private sector, foundations and donors. Arrangements for commercial construction financing of $3.4 million have been made with a syndicate of Credit Unions co-ordinated by Credit Union Central of Ontario and hosted by Unigasco Credit Union in Chatham. This money will have to be repaid.
This will allow the last and largest segment of construction to move forward while fundraising is still in progress.

How much has been raised and from where?

To date, $9 million dollars have been committed from both private and public sources. The Federal Government has committed $4.6 million, the Municipal Government $1 million, the Provincial Government $466,000 and $3 million from non-government sources. The CCTA has also received $225,000 from the Trillium Foundation to engage a well experienced and well qualified General Manager to oversee the opening and ongoing operations of the theatre. All board members have made a commitment/donation to the project, totaling $1,092,976 in funds and goods/service in kind and the staff of the project has donated funds totaling $652,352. We also have had strong support from such donors as the Rotary Club of Chatham, Commercial Alcohols Inc., Rotary Club of Blenheim, Thompsons Limited (Hyland Seed), McGeachy Charitable Foundation, Pioneer, Barbara Ann Kelly Foundation, Walter J. Blackburn Foundation, Scotiabank, TD Canada Trust, Royal Bank, CIBC and the Bank of Montreal and more.

Who have you approached for donations?
How will the Capitol raise the rest?

In the past the CCTA has approached the Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments, selected private businesses, foundations, service groups, and individuals. The CCTA is organizing and presenting the fundraising initiative in an attractive and polished manner. Chatham Kent has demonstrated confidence and a willingness to undertake many development projects in the past and make them happen!

If the Capitol is borrowing a portion of the money, how will the Capitol pay off the loan?

We have included the loan repayment as part of our business plan for when the theatre opens. Of course, we hope to raise all of the necessary funds beforehand to avoid paying mortgage payments.

Why restore the theatre?

Considering the recent layoffs in Chatham-Kent, why is a restored Capitol Theatre necessary?

We are very concerned about the unfortunate downturn in the local economy. We believe that all of us need to act now so that Chatham-Kent can continue to position itself as an attractive municipality in which to reside or locate a business. We believe that a restored Capitol Theatre can be part of the answer toward further diversifying the local economy. In the second edition of the Municipal Strategic Plan (2004), ensuring that the Capitol Theatre project reaches completion was identified as a priority. In 2007, the Mayor and Council established the importance of developing cultural facilities and activities in the Strategic Directions.
Improvements and new business growth have begun on the west end of King Street. A local restaurateur purchased the property and building next to the theatre, restoring the building and opened OPUS Restaurant and Martini Lounge, a fine dining establishment. Another local entrepreneur purchased the building across the street from the theatre, investing several hundred thousand dollars to create a taste of authentic Italy, Mamma Maria’s Ristorante. The Daily Planet building, located in the adjacent block to the theatre, established in 1851 was in dire need of repair. Local businessman, Mike Fairbairn, purchased the building and invested a great deal of money in the reconstruction, retaining the building’s original stature while modernizing the interior. Three new Bed and Breakfasts have opened within the past four years within Chatham.

What is the real economic impact?

The Chatham-Kent Community Development Corporation quoted that construction expenditures have a multiplier economic impact effect of 3.0. Construction costs to date have been approximately 6 million so that the economic impact to date has been 18 million dollars. (6 million x 3.0) That’s just for now. Wait until we’re open!

The building

How many seats will the theatre have?

The theatre is going to have about 1200 seats. The size of the seats will be representative of industry standards in size and comfort, ranging from 19 to 21 inches in width.

What is the size of the stage?

The stage will be 70 feet in width and approximately 50 feet in depth. The width of the proscenium arch will be roughly the same size as the proscenium arch of the Fisher Theatre in Detroit and the Royal Alexandria Theatre in Toronto.

How many washrooms will the theatre have?

The theatre will have six public washroom facilities (three for women, three for men) on three levels. There will be a total of 23 water closets and 17 basins for women and 8 water closets, 15 urinals and 13 basins for men.

Didn’t this theatre have a balcony?

The original Capitol Theatre did not have a balcony; however, the restored Capitol Theatre will have a balcony with seating for approximately 400 people.

What is a fly tower? Why does the Capitol want to build one?

A fly tower is a large open structure over the stage that houses a series of cables and pulleys allowing for sets of scenery to be “flown” up into the tower when not in use and therefore out of view from the seated audience. A fly tower is one of the most important components of the project because many upper quality shows require a fly tower. The Capitol’s fly tower will be the height of a 7-story building.

What about parking?

There are over 950 parking spots within a 2-block radius of the theatre. Also, our research has shown that having patrons walk through the downtown area on their way to and from the theatre has a very beneficial effect on business. Almost every theatre in Toronto, New York and other major centres involve some walking to get to. Plus, we all know that a bit of walking is good exercise!

Is the theatre going to be accessible for those who are physically challenged?

Yes it is. Plans are in place for this to occur as the theatre is being built to accommodate patrons who are handicapped. All parts of the theatre are fully accessible. An elevator will be installed in the theatre promenade, allowing for access to all three levels including the balcony. The theatre will also be fully equipped with hearing assistive devices.

Will there be an orchestra pit?

Yes there will. It is being constructed in front of the stage and will be built to accommodate a hydraulic lift which can be raised or lowered to suit the needs of a production. It will hold about 35 musicians.

What will the quality of sound in the new theatre be?

The CCTA has engaged the services of John Hemingway acoustic consultant, of John Swallow Associates and Richard Smerdon of Theatre Consulting Group to ensure that the highest level of acoustic quality in the theatre is attained.

Why has the Capitol Theatre been able to install an illuminated sign in the downtown Chatham area?

Because of the special nature of theatrical operations and the need for night time exposure, the CCTA sought and received approval for the illuminated signage from the Historic Downtown Chatham Business Improvement Association, the Historic Downtown Chatham Committee and the Council for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

Programming

Why do we need the Capitol when we already have the Kiwanis Theatre?

The Kiwanis Theatre and the Capitol agree on this point. The Capitol could not be torn down as it is a historic building in Chatham Kent. Another reason is the fly tower as previously discussed. The Kiwanis Theatre does not have one and is limited in what shows it can bring into town. Also, the Capitol will have an orchestra pit. The Kiwanis and Capitol theatres are committed to working in a very collaborative partnership.

What is the Capitol Theatre going to offer as far as programming goes?

Programming will feature a variety of live music from legendary rock bands to pop and country music icons, to famous comedians, first class musical theatre tours, professional children’s shows, and much more. The Capitol will bring the best in live entertainment closer than ever before.

How much will it cost to see a show?

The price of individual tickets will be dependent upon the cost of staging a particular show and will be in keeping with similar performances at similar theatres.

Is there a business plan in place for before the theatre opens and afterwards?

• 97% of Chatham area residents surveyed said they supported the project
• 93% said they would attend a performance
• 71% of Americans within a day’s drive of Chatham-Kent would travel here to see top name entertainment.

1. Bringing more varied professional entertainment to the citizens of Chatham-Kent
2. Anchoring the west end of downtown Chatham and becoming a catalyst for redevelopment
3. Providing increased economic activity in the region for a low investment cost and allowing for long-term tourism development
4. Providing more access to the Kiwanis Theatre by community-based groups
5. Supplying the region with a venue of high quality with comfortable seating and attractive lobby areas.

Anything else the Capitol will offer?

Besides the wonderful programming, the Capitol Theatre will be available for business and school events, political activities, award presentations, fundraising events, civic gatherings, religious services and many other community events and users.

When is the theatre going to be open?

We had hoped to open as early as 2000. Because of our participation in the job creation program and our employees advancing to positions outside of the theatre, escalating costs, other competition for the donor dollar, etc., we have not been able to open as expected. We hesitate to set an exact date but are hopeful for 2008.

Why aren’t there any shows on now?

We have produced programs featuring Colm Wilkinson, Kenny Rogers, the Roots Festival, etc., but as you can imagine, also found this very time consuming. This programming takes away from our focus on fundraising. When the theatre is open, it will be our business to put on a lot of shows!

When is the Capitol hiring the General Manager?

The CCTA was delighted to receive a grant of $225,000. over three years from the Trillium Foundation to help the theatre pay for the salary of the General Manager. After a very selective and intense screening and interview process, the CCTA is delighted to announce the appointment to the position of the General Manager to Dan Donaldson. Dan comes to this community as a very highly skilled and well respected person in the arts community and will help to build our theatre into a thriving performing arts centre in southwestern Ontario.

Are our local taxpayers dollars funding the project?

Yes, thank you! The Municipality of Chatham-Kent contributed $1 million dollars over three years to the renovation and reconstruction of the theatre. (So for you personally, the cost equals about a coffee and a donut once a year for three years.)

Why does the CCTA believe that this theatre can succeed?

In short, the CCTA has done its homework. The CCTA has invested a great deal of energy and care into ensuring that the Capitol Theatre will succeed. Representatives of the Capitol Theatre have consulted individually and collectively with other Ontario communities, administrators from national level theatre companies from Vancouver to Halifax, representatives from the African Canadian Heritage Network, and Federal and Provincial government agencies to formulate a business and marketing strategy that will succeed. Of particular note in the quest for information is the helpful relationship that is being developed with the world class and highly successful Stratford Festival.

Partnerships, Economic Benefits and other information

Who does the Capitol Theatre have partnerships with?

St. Clair College is partnering with the CCTA to create new education programs focused on professional theatre management, performing arts, cultural appreciation and related fields.

The CCTA, the Historic Downtown Chatham BIA, the Municipality and HRSDC are actively addressing the renewal of downtown Chatham and have developed a prototype process which is now being implemented in other communities in Chatham-Kent.

The Dickens Fellowship has been formed to develop activities in Chatham-Kent which will celebrate the life of Charles Dickens, and inform interested people in the community and beyond about his work. Charles Dickens lived and his early education took place in Chatham, Kent, England and preliminary initiatives are underway to twin the two communities. This group may ultimately be interested in presenting a yearly Dickens Festival. Members of the Chatham-Kent Dickens Fellowship are strong supporters of the Chatham Capitol Theatre project and the senior staff of the project continues to actively support the Dickens Fellowship initiative. The Capitol Theatre Project Manager is a member of the Board of Directors of the Dickens Fellowship.

How much of an economic impact can the community expect
from a restored Capitol Theatre?

Conservative projections of the theatre programming will create approximately 150 full and part time jobs, directly and indirectly related to the theatre initiative. Ontario Theatres and the Association of Summer Theatres Round Ontario established that from their experience an average projected economic benefit ratio of 5:1 can be used to calculate the economic benefits - for every dollar spent at the box office, five dollars are spent in the community on items such as lodging, dining, gift purchase, and so on.

What are the benefits of the Capitol Theatre to the communities located outside of Chatham?

The prospect of a theatre in downtown Chatham could provide the opportunity for the economic improvement of the outlying communities, particularly in the service sector.

One prime example illustrating how outlying communities can benefit from increased tourist traffic in a nearby city is the effect the Stratford Festival has on the town of St. Mary’s. St. Mary’s is approximately a 15-minute drive from Stratford with a population of 6,000 people. It is estimated that one half of the tourists that visit St. Mary’s visit specifically because of the Stratford Festival. It is also estimated that many of the guests who stay at the 19 bed and breakfast establishments in the St. Mary’s area stay there because of the smaller size of the town. We understand that visitors spend approximately $880,000 in the community of St. Mary’s. A great number of these tourists visited the community because of activities related to the Stratford Festival. In addition, the estimated $169 million dollars of economic benefit related to the operation of the Stratford Festival is spent not only in the city of Stratford, but within a one half hour radius of the Festival Theatre.

When the Stratford Festival opened, Stratford had two motels; it now has sixteen. In Perth County there are now 300 bed and breakfast establishments and 87 restaurants.
A beautiful theatre located in downtown Chatham will attract more people to the area, giving them the opportunity to discover such attractions as the Buxton Homecoming, WAMBO in Wallaceburg, Buffalo Days and Art-in-the-Park in Ridgetown, the Threshing Festival in Thamesville, Grapejam at Smith & Wilson Estate Wines in Cedar Springs, Blenheim’s Sidewalk Sale and Cherry Festival, the Dresden Exhibition, the Tilbury Homecoming and Family Festival, the Bothwell OptiFest and more. The influx of tourist traffic to the area can only help to support and enhance other existing events throughout the Municipality.

How you can help

The CCTA will gratefully accept gifts of cash, goods and services in kind, memberships, seat sponsorships, and the purchase of Frank Jordan prints. There are different levels of giving that have a variety of privileges attached to them depending upon the amount of the gift. The CCTA will also gladly accept your support through volunteerism.

What is the seat sponsorship program?

For a donation of $500, a sponsor will have a plaque appear on a theatre seat in perpetuity. The plaque can be inscribed with up to 14 characters each on two lines. In addition, the sponsors will receive a tax receipt and a personalized certificate. As well, their names will appear in a book of honour that will be showcased in a theatre lobby. To date, a total of 735 seats have been sponsored, raising $356,500 to date.

Can I specify where my seat will be in the auditorium?

The CCTA will allocate the placement of the plaques on the theatre seats through a lottery process.

How much of my donation goes toward the actual seat?

Each seat costs approximately $200. The gift of $500 is applied to the general funds for reconstructing the theatre, including the purchase of new seats.

How can I become a member of the CCTA?

A $20 donation qualifies a person for membership to the CCTA. Membership entitlements include receipt of a newsletter, voting rights at the annual general meeting and a Capitol Theatre pin.

Do you have any more questions?

We’ve got the answers! Give us a call at 519-358-7079 and ask for Dan Donaldson, General Manager.

Thanks so much for your time!