City pleased with expressions of interest for historic theatre

By Brian Konrad

Next update due April 11

City reviewing eight submissions to take over the Monarch Theatre

Mar 29, 2022 | 12:59 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — City staff are now reviewing eight proposals received concerning the historic Monarch Theatre in downtown Medicine Hat.

The city asked the community to be creative in making submissions concerning the future operation of the building, and the city’s manager of cultural experiences and events says they didn’t disappoint.

Aaron Nelson says they were pleased with the diversity of proposals and the level of engagement from the community in response to its Request for Proposals.

“There was a range of submissions of everything to purchase, to lease, to lease to purchase and to operate,” says Nelson.

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Nelson says it was encouraging that each proposal was made with a view to continuing to operate the Monarch as a theatre going forward.

“Without being specific, they all have the best interest of the vibrancy of the community of Medicine Hat at heart definitely,” adds Nelson.

Nelson says the building remains in very good shape, thanks to the efforts of the Society of the Friends of the Monarch.

After sorting through the submissions, staff will update the public services committee on the process at it’s meeting on April 11.

The City of Medicine Hat assumed ownership of the Monarch Theatre when the City Centre Development Agency dissolved last summer.