After 42 years of operation the auditorium was showing its age. From 1990 to 2004 the management and operations of the auditorium were contracted out to the private sector until the auditorium was forced to close temporarily in 2004 so that essential maintenance and safety issues could be addressed. This volunteer group implemented a number of improvements including the installation of the rubber screen obtained from the old Capital Theatre and an upgraded lighting system from CBC. In 1984 a volunteer group of parents and community members collaborated with the school to form the Holy Heart Cultural Association whose mandate was to oversee the management, operations and maintenance of the auditorium. From 1962 to 1984 all aspects of the operation of the facility were managed solely through the school. The operation, management and maintenance of such a facility has proven to be a daunting task for a high school. Its central location and size secured its place on the St. It has also been the speaking venue for such renowned guests as Mother Theresa of Calcutta. It has featured the Canadian Opera Company, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, major local theatrical and musical productions, community concerts, the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, the Kiwanis and Rotary music festivals and regional and provincial drama festivals. Over the years the auditorium has been a resource not only for the school, but for the community as well. An interesting note to frugality and heritage is that the seats in the balcony were obtained second hand from the old Cornwall Theatre on Cornwall Avenue (now part of the Smith Stockley complex). Halifax at that time did not have a comparable facility. When it was opened, it was not only considered the best theatre in Newfoundland, but also deemed one of the top five theatres in Canada. It boasted an orchestra pit, dressing rooms, box office and coat check facilities, an inviting lobby and a Steinway grand piano imported from Germany. The auditorium was equipped with the lighting, sound and stage facilities of a professional theatre of the day with a seating capacity of 1100. Actors, musicians and audiences praised its acoustics. It was a gala affair with invited guests sporting tuxedos and fine attire. The Holy Heart “Auditorium” opened with its first official event on Septemcelebrating the graduation of the class of that year.
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