The Other Guise Theatre Society is entering the final phase of building renovations at 716 Johnson Street, a performing arts hub that will provide performance, rehearsal, and office space for artists and arts organizations in Victoria.
The Other Guise, in collaboration with Fold Architecture, Terrazza Builders Inc. and various subtrades, is weeks away from completing a $300,000 renovation to comply with assembly zoning.
“We’re busy. New HVAC system, new dressing rooms, three new doors and two big new windows for the front, and on the list goes: handrails, six new toilets, hand dryers, tiling, flooring, and exit signage. We’re on target for a September opening,” said artistic and executive director Matthew Payne.
In January, Victoria council approved a $100,000 grant to support The Other Guise Theatre, taking Other Guise one step closer to turning the building, formerly a grocery store, into a downtown arts hub with three separate venues.
The company, which has been producing work since 2001 and touring in Canada and the U.S., has been fundraising for the arts centre since it purchased the building in 2023 for $2.4 million.
Producer Indie Garrett said they have raised $650,000 to date and have an additional $1.15 million to raise.
BC Arts Council and the City of Victoria are the primary contributors to the renovation costs.
While the work on the space is underway, the theatre company will celebrate with a speakeasy-themed party on Saturday, August 16, from 7 to 10 p.m., in the driveway alongside the building. The event is a chance for the public and those in the theatre scene to tour the new space and play ticketed games that contribute to fundraising efforts.
“We’ll have guessing games, feats of strength, and activity stations set up throughout the party space. Guests receive three game tickets with the price of admission, and more can be purchased for $1 each," Garrett said in a press release. “There will be plenty of ways to donate to the development of 716 at the party.”
Admission to the fundraiser is on a sliding scale from $15 to $40. Those interested in supporting the arts hub can also make donations at otherguise.ca.
Bell said every bit helps, but ultimately, they just want the community to come celebrate.
“We’re building a space for independent artists, and we want those artists at the party! A sliding scale admission helps ensure that everyone can attend,” said director Elijah Bell in a press release. “If you can afford a $40 ticket, know you’re making it possible for us to open our doors to anyone.”
Garrett added that the goal of the Aug. 16 fundraiser is to raise $5000 towards the building's new HVAC system "to get the public in the building as soon as possible and put on terrific shows."
