User:Misterque/Staircase Cafe Theatre

STAIRCASE CAFE THEATRE, THE
The Staircase Cafe Theatre is an intimate independent theatre in Hamilton Ontario. The theatre was established in an abandoned hydro transformer substation in 1998. Since it's inception the 67 theatre has grown to include a cafe, multiple rehearsal spaces, and two out buildings that supply more rehearsal space and artist residences. The space has provided local, and international artists with a unique performance space that supports performers at all stages of their careers. Since The Staircase opened its doors it has hosted more than 5000 public events

Historic Building
The Staircase is housed in a former hydro transformer substation that was completed in 1914. Originally built by Cataract Power the transformer station was one of the first permanent structures for distributing hydro electric power in Canada. The epic structure was decomissioned by Hamilton Hydro in 1977 and was slated for demolition in 1996. The building became a hub for improvisational theatre in Hamilton, and renovations began in earnest in 2000. Despite enormous renovations all historical aspects of the building that existed in 1998 have been left intact.

Scope of Activities
The Staircase Cafe Theatre came to being from a core desire to present improvisational theatre in a fun and reliable environment. The space has expanded to host a wide variety of artistic endeavours: stand up comedy, dramatic theatre, live music , open acoustic stage, dance , comedy theatre, musical theatre, fine art presentation, art classes, theatre classes and more. The Staircase is an arts institution, however it also rents to non-arts events. Corporate events, conventions and weddings help keep the facility afloat. The space also has a licensed cafe.

Contact and Tour Info
Two of the three buildings that make up The Staircase are famous in the Strathcona community. The former transformer substation building has been an epic fixture in the community for generations. The Southern building was a candy for for more than 75 years before falling into disrepair and now restored into a rehearsal space. Both buildings are available for tours. Check the our online page staircase.org or call 905.529.3000. The Staircase 27 Dundurn St. North Hamilton ON L8P 4N2.