The old McCarthy Theatre was built in 1938 and closed down in 1962 and for the past 25 years it was run as a sports and hobby store. Our client bought the building in 2002 with the dream of having the theatre once again shine as a cultural centre in the downtown core. It was a challenge because of solid 14" thick concrete walls that had to be opened up to join spaces and to build on a stage and back of house addition. The new owner Mark Rachotte, wanted a flexible theatre that could accommodate any style of concert or performance together with surround sound cinema. Pace Interior Design started the task of transforming the McCarthy building into the new Empire Theatre and Centre For Performing Arts with meeting rooms, bars, lounges, cafe and dressing rooms etc. The goal was to have 700 seats in the performance hall—all with a great view and acoustics. Because the owner is a musician himself, he was adamant the sound and lights and all stage facilities had to be state of the art. Most of the original architectural details were luckily in good enough condition to be restored to grandeur and the modern aspects of performance theatres had to be seamlessly integrated. The Box Office, The McCarthy Lounge, The Marquee Lounge and the Cafe With respect for the building's existing architecture, Pace Interior Design added a classical contemporary flare with a neutral colour palette and restrained detailing. Visual impact was achieved by opening the main floor to the street with full height glazing running the entire front of the building and a grand spiral staircase joining the two levels. The new box office was created with its own entrance and lobby. With creative zoning & planning, Pace incorporated two separate lounges that not only double as circulation spaces for the shows but also act as revenue generating spaces for non-performance nights. Also a large Cafe was added for confection & non-alcoholic drink sales. The Performance Hall Directing several consulting companies Pace helped to achieve performance perfection for the sound, acoustic and lighting systems. While functional, the acoustic panels become a design feature within the hall to celebrate the modern / classical design direction. The halls curved ceilings and rosettes, and the intricate carved proscenium were restored and modern custom light fixtures contrast the old with the new. In addition to creating the stunning visuals throughout the public spaces in the theatre, Pace also created the back of house services such as stage areas, green rooms and dressing rooms for the performers. This project's greatest success is that it has almost single-handedly revived faith in the downtown core. Many nights of the week the theatre is busy with professional and amateur community events, film festivals and presentations. Visit the website at theempiretheatre.com to see more information and to take a virtual tour. “I trusted them completely with bringing the vision I had to life. Many of the comments I get from customers say it feels like an elegant night on the town—but a big town like Toronto, without having to drive all that way!” Mark Rashotte Owner/ Operator, Empire Theatre and Centre for the Performing Arts.