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Did you know? Massey Theatre Renovation

We’re sharing fun facts and updates here throughout the Massey Theatre Renovation. You can see these posts on the City's social channels (Facebook • Instagram • LinkedIn). Follow to see updates as the renovation progresses!

 

September 24, 2026

Check out the new pops of colour inside and outside the theatre!

Colour has been incorporated strategically into the design of the building (both inside and out) for a number of reasons. Pops of colour will update the building’s appearance and give each entry its own specific identity. 

Outside, the three main entrances are each marked with a different colour. They feature green, yellow, or red so that people approaching the building can be guided to a specific colour door and then can more easily remember which entrance is theirs. It's a simple, visual way of helping people navigate the building.
 
Inside, the theatre will also have pops of colour. The colours will help highlight key 
locations of interest such as the washrooms, the studio lobby, and elevator lobbies.
 

Colour is just one of the many thoughtful features incorporated into the Massey Theatre renovation to create a welcoming experience for everyone.

June 28, 2026

The Project is helping the City meet its climate action targets

Sustainability is taking centre stage at Massey Theatre.

Key sustainability upgrades are taking place:

  • Transitioning from natural gas to an energy-efficient electric heating and cooling system
  • Adding new insulation, windows, and exterior upgrades to reduce energy loss
  • Installing electric vehicle charging stations

Together, these improvements are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 90%, upgrading this community space while supporting the City's Seven Bold Steps for Climate Action goals.

April 21, 2026

The Distinctive Glass Entry Is A Bold Statement Of Its Time

When the building first opened in the late 1940s as New Westminster Junior High School, the tall vertical window wall was designed to bring natural light deep into the building and create a sense of openness and civic pride.

At a time when most schools were still heavy, enclosed structures, this glass façade symbolized transparency in education, a modern and forward-thinking city, and a connection between inside and out.

Over the years, much of the original glazing above the entrance was altered or lost. But now, it’s coming back. As part of the renovation, the team is restoring the building’s signature vertical glass expression and upgrading it to modern energy, accessibility, and performance standards.

It’s one more way this much-loved community landmark is being renewed for future generations.

Rendering by Proscenium Architecture + Interiors Inc. Historic photo provided by the Massey Theatre Society.

March 16, 2026

Accessibility Upgrades Are A Key Part Of The Massey Theatre Renovation

These upgrades help ensure the theatre is welcoming and accessible for everyone in our community.

Guided by an accessibility audit and universal design best practices, the project includes improvements throughout the building to remove barriers and make it easier for audience members, performers, students, staff, and visitors of all abilities to enjoy the space.

Some of the accessibility upgrades include:

  • A new elevator connecting all levels of the theatre
  • New accessible entrances, ramps, and automatic door operators at main entries 
  • A performer lift connecting dressing rooms, parking lot stage door, and the mainstage
  • Improved wayfinding with high-contrast design elements and colour-coded entrances
  • Accessible parking, drop-off areas, and EV charging stations
  • New all-gender and accessible washrooms are designed to be welcoming, safe, and practical for everyone 

These improvements mean more areas of the theatre will be accessible than before, supporting a more inclusive experience for the entire community.

April 30, 2025

Phase Two Included The Demolition Of The Old Gymnasium

Work on the Massey Theatre Renovation Project is well underway! Phase 2 of the renovation is now complete with the deconstruction of the old gymnasium wing.

The City's contribution of $34.1 million reflects our ongoing commitment to the cultural sector and recognizes the importance of this civic cultural asset to the local and regional community. We're pleased to be working with Turnbull Construction Project Managers, Proscenium Architecture & Interiors, Heatherbrae Builders, and Massey Theatre Society on this project.