Opened in 1922, it has alternately exalted and suffered through changes in the entertainment industry and the whims
of its audiences - presenting both film and live shows through the
years.
Situated on Main Street in picturesque
Picton Ontario, the historic Regent Theatre is the centre for the arts
in Prince Edward
County, providing the community
with a unique venue for live theatre and music. First run movies and
Cinefest, part of the Film Circuit of the Toronto International Film
Festival, round out the offerings of The Regent making it a diverse
venue that truly reflects its community.
|
|
On Stage and Screen
|
A rare example of
an Edwardian opera house, The Regent's stage is equal in size to that of
The Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto. Above the stage is a 21 metre
(70 foot) fly tower. Original dressing room includes blackboards lining
the walls where, in a former era, performers wrote their show's running
order.
Designed by
Toronto architects Warrington and Page for George Cook, The Regent
Theatre opened its doors in February 1922 with the Canadian war comedy
Mademoiselle from Armentiers.
In 1994 The Regent
Theatre Foundation, a community based, not-for-profit organization,
bought the theatre from the Cook family. Since that time the Foundation
Board and volunteers have toiled to restore the theatre as close to its
original state as possible. In 1998 the stage was opened up, the fly
tower was re-rigged and made operational and the theatre's roof was
replaced. Later installations and upgrades included 351 comfortable,
modern seats, new fire doors, electronic alarm system, and electrical
service. The building was brought into compliance with fire and safety
regulations and received a designation as an historical building.
Significant enhancements over the years have added features such as the
lighted marquee, the magnificent Austrian crystal chandeliers that grace
the lobby and air conditioning.
