The Foundation’s Projects – and their Supporters
Since Manitou’s Centennial was celebrated, the Opera House Foundation has completed numerous projects. They include the curtain project, the round table project, the geothermal heating project, the electrical upgrade, the fire code upgrade, creation of a theatre lighting system, refinishing of the auditorium floor, creation of dressing room space in the ‘long room’ in the basement, repair and upgrade of the exterior of the building and any others too numerous to mention! Thanks to the Borderline Singers, the Opera House now has an excellent grand piano on the stage.
Opera House Capacity
The main auditorium holds 275 persons in a concert setting.
The balcony will also hold up to 100 patrons in a concert setting.
The Opera House Accessibility Project addressed needs which have been obvious for decades. The completed addition has received accolades for the detail and precision of the work.
Accessible Foyer and Washroom Facilities
The Access Wing provides a ramped walkway leading to a spacious foyer. The Access Wing is architecturally consistent with the Heritage style of the original building. The washrooms, at the back of the addition, are accessible and yet discrete. Stair wells allow access to the basement area. Access to the main auditorium is discrete and traffic flow easily managed.
Backstage Gallery
The Backstage Area is at stage height with a ramp allowing disability access. Sets, or the grand piano, can be moved easily for use or storage. Stairs again provide access to the basement where sets can be built and painted.
Green/Club Room
The central basement room servs as a Green Room, with a pool table, meeting area, and sofas where artists can relax. It also serves as a Club Room where youth groups, clubs, and cast members meet to rehearse or to discuss projects.
Archive
The west end of the basement serves as a climate controlled Archive and Storage area with shelving and a meeting room table for study and research.
Dance Studio
The Dance Studio in the basement has a wood floor with pliable underlay, mirrors and bars.
Meeting Room and Servery Kitchen
The Opera House has two kitchen areas; the basement Servery Kitchen allows banquet service without interfering with audience flow patterns. The upstairs Access Wing kitchen area allows luncheon service for audience members during concerts and other such events. The same kitchen area is an excellent place to hold a small group meeting.
Here, the salads are all ready to be served for a banquet.
