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While renovations are being done to the interior of Regina’s Darke Hall, memories of its historic past are being uncovered.
A third archway leading from the foyer into the auditorium, which had been covered up, was discovered and has been reopened to be used in the new design.
“It’s a little bit like peeling an onion and as you peel that onion you find layers of restoration work,” said James Youck, architect and principal at P3Architecture Partnership.
Workers came across another surprise while testing paint stripper, discovering stenciling around the windows.
“All of a sudden, we could see that there was this incredible blue and gold and red stenciling around all of these windows. When you look at the historical photographs that are very grainy and very old, you could just very faintly see that there was something there but you really couldn’t tell,” said Youck.
As signs of Darke Hall’s past come to light, the University of Regina unveiled its design plans for the future of the facility on Friday.
The revitalization project focuses on providing a better experience for guests and performers, while enhancing the overall performance and accessibility of the hall.
The old basement will become the main level, with an entrance through the atrium currently being built connecting Darke Hall to the Conexus building to the west.
A new elevator is being installed connecting all three levels.
“The balcony is being completely rebuilt and made handicap-accessible both via the elevator and with handicap-accessible seating,” said Youck.
Other improvements include wider seats, enhanced washrooms, a bar, a VIP lounge, and a stage extension to allow for larger performances and better line of sight for audience members.
“As you can see, there’s tremendous work to be done here,” said Vianne Timmons, the president of the University of Regina.
Timmons said the hall will enhance the culture of the city tremendously by drawing amazing performers from around the world.
Darke Hall plans to reopen in early 2021. Timmons said the university is also planning to put a call out to the public to see who they’d like to see perform.
