← Back to News & Opportunities
FB Live Status Chat Summary
Question: How will your post-COVID 19 cleaning measures compare to routine upkeep?
Answer:
- routine cleaning plus disinfection of high touch surfaces including door handles, banisters, and counter surfaces
- also cleaning armrests / seats, technical equipment between shows
- staff will be reminded to maintain frequent hand-washing and disinfection of work space
- patrons will be encouraged to wash hands frequently and wear a mask if this is a recommendation for larger gatherings
Question: Will you be having any summer camps or other kids’ activities this summer?
Answer:
- Capitol Centre is not able to host kids camps and activity days this summer due to current staffing levels and COVID-19 restrictions
- WKP Kennedy Gallery is hosting online activities during summer called Kennedy Kids Craft Challenge on WKP Facebook page
Question: What sort of financial impact has COVID 19 had on the Capitol Centre?
Answer:
- some employees directly associated with live show presentations were laid off
- remaining core staff, including WKP Kennedy Gallery, are working from home
- government relief efforts and grants allow us to manage current, necessary expenses
- cancelled our golf tournament which is one of our biggest fundraising events each year
- cancelled shows which results in lost ticket sale revenue due to refunds, plus lost concession and bar sales
- when cancelled shows have already been promoted and paid for, marketing expenses and artists deposits are also written off
- all Spring events cancelled (i.e.: graduation ceremonies, dance competitions, etc) which is lost facility rental and concession revenue
Question: When do you expect the gallery will be able to open?
Answer:
- WKP Gallery is permitted to open now, as per provincial direction – we will publicize when finally open
- As a venue within the Capitol Centre, the WKP must also consider impact and restrictions to entrance areas of the building
- Visitors will be required to book in advance, numbers of visitors will be restricted, and health protocols will be in place
Question: How do you anticipate moving forward if current physical distancing restrictions are in place?
Answer:
- reduced capacity theatre is possible – it will limit the types of performances we can present which limits revenue potential
- concession and bar may not be open for performances, which also limits revenue potential
Question: What other restrictions will be in place when you re-open?
Answer:
- currently there is no clear direction from government and public health on what restrictions will be in place
- post-pandemic planning includes the possibility that patrons may be asked to wear masks
- concession will be limited
- intermission during shows may be eliminated to reduce gathering of patrons
- staggered patron arrival/departures may be implemented
- physically distanced seating arrangements in the theatre
Question: Has the Capitol Centre considered hosting a drive-in concert or movie?
Answer:
- both event ideas were considered and have not yet been ruled out as possibilities
- currently operating with minimal staff and scaled back operations therefore not in an ideal position to pursue some initiatives
- significant costs are attached to producing off-site events due to technical equipment, set-up/ tear-down, artist fees, marketing, etc.
- Capitol Centre is not currently in a good position to take on new, unknown events
Question: Is it safe for me to buy a gift card from the Capitol Centre?
Answer:
- Phase 3 opening is anticipated in the near future, it will include restrictions but we anticipate it will evolve to larger crowds/larger shows over time
- plans are underway to introduce our new 2020/21 Season Launch event this fall with shows taking place in the winter and next spring
- expect to be able to use gift cards for movies and live performances in the months ahead
Question: What are some positive things that have happened during the last few months?
Answer:
- Capitol Centre has developed new online programming which has engaged people new to our venue
- feedback from the community about online programs has been very positive
- WKP Kennedy Gallery has newly repaired walls and new floor installed in the large gallery which was planned prior to pandemic
- WKP Kennedy Gallery developed new online programming including InspiRED vidcast and The Easel digizine (online magazine)
- Capitol Centre has enjoyed cultivating new partnerships with local artists and community supporters
- Our Body Our Land is a new exhibition that will be at the WKP Kennedy Gallery from July 24 – September 26
Question: How can we help the Capitol Centre?
Answer:
- Donate
- Online @ capitolcentre.org/donate
- By cheque, mail to Capitol Centre, 150 Main Street East, North Bay ON P1B 1A8
- Buy a membership
- More info is available at capitolcentre.org/membership
- Buy gift cards for down the road
- Contact our Box Office at 705-474-4747
- Email our Box Office Manager at [email protected]
- Follow us on social media and like/share our content to help broaden our exposure and increase our reach
- Facebook: CapitolCentre
- Instagram: capitol_centre
- Twitter: capitolcentre
- Youtube: capitolcentre4747