nelson civic theatre

Nelson, BCTraditional Homelands: Ktunaxa, Syilx, and Sinixt Peoples

Reimagining the performance of a historic theatre and community hub.

Built during the 1930s as part of a larger civic centre, this art deco cinema requires substantial upgrades to continue supporting the needs of the community. Cover has been a key partner in this project for many years and has facilitated extensive feasibility, energy, and accessibility studies as well as content creation for grant applications. We are excited to be leading the design team as this renovation finally becomes a reality!

The vison for the theatre is grand. Currently operating at half of its full capacity, this renovation reimagines the underutilized space and introduces universal design principles to redefine circulation and access throughout the theatre. The design will expand the capacity of the theatre, introducing an additional two theatres at the back of the existing main theatre. The main theatre and lobby will be a celebration of the theatre’s historical art deco motifs, while the new theatres offer an opportunity for a more contemporary approach. This connection between past and present will bring complexity and richness to the interior spaces.