The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts is celebrating a major milestone by inviting the Brantford community behind the curtain.
A free public open house will be held Friday, October 2, from 7 to 9 p.m., marking 40 years since the historic theatre reopened following a major restoration.
The celebration falls exactly four decades after a sold-out performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita welcomed audiences back on October 2, 1986.
The drop-in event will include behind-the-scenes tours led by Sanderson Centre staff. Visitors can explore rarely seen areas, hear stories about the theatre and ask questions. Video tours will also be offered for areas that are not accessible.
Tours will finish on the main stage with light refreshments, with the final tours beginning at 8:30 p.m.
Brantford purchased the building in 1986 for $425,000, with volunteers, businesses and residents helping fund its restoration.
Preservation work continues today, including a lower lobby project inspired by the building’s original 1919 Temple Theatre appearance.
The anniversary open house is free and no registration is required.
Written by Jeremy Hall
