Eglinton Theatre Finds New Use

Circa 1930s & 40s Eglinton Theatre

Plans for the future Eglinton Grand, formerly the Eglinton Theatre, were officially unveiled at a recent press conference. The theatre closed in September 2001 after the Ontario Human Rights commission ordered Famous Players to make the cinema wheelchair accessible. Immediately, there were concerns about the future of the historic neighbourhood landmark.

The Eglinton Theatre, once the flag-ship cinema of the Famous Players chain, opened in 1936, and was designed by Kaplan and Sprachman architects in the art deco style. As a significant example of the architecture and interior design of that period, the Eglinton was listed as a heritage building. Although never threatened by demolition, there were abundant concerns on the part of Heritage Toronto and a community group called Save The Eglinton Theatre (STET) that the structure and interior detail would be compromised by any future re-use.

Now, after months of successful and creative dialogue between the various stake holders, the Eglinton’s new tenants Dynamic Hospitality and Entertainment Group (DHEG) are set to convert the former theatre into a swanky events location for weddings, birthdays, corporate shindigs, bar mitzvahs, etc.

Sam D’Uva, Managing Director of DHEG: “Our plan is to restore the Eglinton to its original grandeur. We will be enhancing the art deco features… to create a ballroom in the classic 1930s style… We hope to attract the Forest Hill community nearby.”

“The conversion goes ahead with the approval of both municipal and provincial governments, as well as that of STET and Heritage Toronto,” D’Uva stressed, as representatives of all parties involved were at hand to answer questions.

It is significant that the success of the conversion is thanks to collaboration and goodwill. Provincial heritage legislation has no teeth, and by itself can achieve very little. This leaves historic buildings and heritage sites dangerously vulnerable. In this instance, it took the determination of a volunteer neighbourhood group, a property developer wise to the commercial benefits of preserving built history, the political pull of an MPP, and the intellectual input of a heritage organization to save the Eglinton Theatre.

Elayne Freeman, spokesperson for STET, outlined her group’s strategy: “We approached owner and developer in a spirit of co-operation. From the beginning we wanted them to be clear about our concerns, and that we were not out to stop their venture. I think this greatly contributed to the success of the collaboration.” STET also collected signatures for a petition, and organized rallies and special screenings.

“Although we’re disappointed it’s not going to be a theatre, an event venue such as the Eglinton Grand is the next best thing,” she added.

Freeman sees the future role for STET as a watchdog to ensure that as many original features of the building be preserved as possible. According to Sai Leung of munge//leung: design associates, some of the features to be preserved are the ceilings in the theatre, the railings in the lobby, and an art deco mural, also in the lobby.

Theatre-goers at one time crowded the seats

Freeman also expects STET to raise funds to stage more affordable events, particularly those that will help the Eglinton remain a neighbourhood focus. After all, the Eglinton Theatre used to be available to everyone, not just those who could afford to stage $10,000-plus events (there are those who remember Saturday matinees at 10 cents a movie!).

In addition, she sees a purpose for STET to work with the provincial government in re-designing the Ontario Heritage Act, a task that is as daunting as it is pressing if more historic buildings are to find new uses. A private residence, an architect’s former abode, or an early industrial site are equally deserving of our efforts in preserving built heritage, but do not have the art deco drawing power, conjuring up glamour, wealth, and extravaganza.

It is rare that the heritage community can record a success story. All too often projects for the preservation of historic buildings come to a cruel and disappointing halt in the face of urban development. The conversion of the former Eglinton Theatre should invigorate the efforts of heritage organizations and community groups that intend to protect historic landmarks, streetscapes, and neighbourhoods.

Images courtesy of Dynamic Hospitality and Entertainment Group