Frequently Asked Questions

 

Cambridge’s New Performance Theatre

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Q1. How did this project originate, and how has the public been involved?

As required per Government Contribution Agreement guidelines, the process thus far has been

completely transparent since public inception. Studies which pre-date the involvement of

Drayton Entertainment, along with the City of Cambridge Arts & Cultural Master Plan released

in 2009, identified both a lack of physical space (performance facility) and opportunity to meet

cultural, social, educational, and economic needs.

Forward-thinking individuals (business people, arts representatives, the Mayor and members of

council) began discussions with Drayton Entertainment on operating a theatre in Cambridge as

part of its sustainable model of operations – a model that has been applauded and rewarded

(including six Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for the Arts for demonstrated exceptional private

sector and community support).

Three public committees were established to assist: the Site-Selection Committee, the Advisory

Committee, and the Architectural Services Committee. These committees ensure a sufficient

system of checks and balances so this public investment is sustainable for the long-term.

 

Q2. What is the official name of Cambridge’s new performance theatre?

The final name of the theatre is not confirmed. Naming opportunities are being considered as

part of the fundraising campaign for the theatre as well as other dedicated spaces throughout the

complex. For the purpose of government correspondence and communication, to this point it has

been referred to as the Cambridge Performing Arts Complex.

 

Q3. How many seats will the theatre contain?

The theatre will contain 500 seats.

 

Q4. What is the project footprint?

The footprint is approximately 59,000 square feet and includes the theatre, administration

offices, production, and support facilities.

 

Q5. What is the project budget?

The project budget is estimated at $14.0 million and includes a 500-seat theatre and Drayton

Entertainment’s consolidated administration offices, production, and support facilities. The

project is part of a larger $20.9 million project through the Building Canada Program, which

includes capital upgrades at several Drayton Entertainment theatres including the Huron Country

Playhouse in Grand Bend, Drayton Festival Theatre in Drayton, and St. Jacobs Country

Playhouse in Waterloo.

The City’s contribution to the project has always been $6.0 million. The Government of Canada

is contributing up to $6.0 million and the Province of Ontario is contributing up to $6.0 million.

The remainder is the responsibility of Drayton Entertainment.

 

Q6. Who will own the Cambridge Performing Arts Complex?

The City of Cambridge will maintain ownership of the land at 46 Grand Ave. along with the

estimated $14.0 million complex, and have no obligation to provide operating dollars on an

annual basis.

 

Q7. How has the project been tendered?

The tender date postings for RFPs regarding Construction Management and Architectural

Services were December 11, 2009 and January 19, 2010, respectively. As required by all three

levels of government, the contract award process for eligible costs to be funded under this project

was competitive, fair, transparent, and consistent with the Agreement on Internal Trade.

The RFPs were issued through MERX, Canada's leading electronic-tendering service, thereby

satisfying requirements that this process be open across Canada and not limited to regional in

scope.

Architectural Services were chosen by members of Drayton Entertainment, City of Cambridge

employees, and members of the Advisory Committee. There were 19 Architectural firms from

across Canada (including two local firms) who submitted RFPs. Five firms were placed on a

short list for interviews (including two local firms). Diamond and Schmitt was selected as the

successful proponent.

Construction Management Services were chosen by Drayton Entertainment as per Government

Contribution Agreement guidelines stated above. There were six submissions from Ontario based

companies. Melloul-Blamey Construction was selected as the successful proponent.

 

Q8. Who will use Cambridge’s new performance theatre?

Aside from the annual professional theatre season that will draw thousands of residents and

tourists and act as a cultural, educational, and economic hub, there will be myriad uses by other

organizations from dance companies to theatre groups, music organizations to schools, public

speaking to community fundraisers, to name just a few.

 

Q9. Is Drayton Entertainment a sustainable organization?

Drayton Entertainment is a registered not-for-profit charitable organization (12591 1313

RR0001). As such, it maintains full compliance with Ontario’s Charities Accounting Act. It is

viewed as a viable partner by the City of Cambridge because the organization does not receive

annual operating funds from local, provincial, or federal arts councils, nor does it receive annual

operating funds from any other municipality in which it is located. It is sustainable and selfsufficient,

with an award-winning business model studied across the country.

 

Q10. What is the project timeline?

Mid-February 2011 Commence Working Drawings

Early April 2011 Issuance of Site Plan Application

Mid-June to Late June 2011 Issuance of Permits

Late-June to Early July 2011 Ground Breaking

Late Summer 2012 Construction Completion